September 09, 2026
News
South West accountancy and financial planning firm Albert Goodman has welcomed 29 new trainees, placement students and career changers into its development programme this year, reinforcing its commitment to investing in future talent at a time when opportunities for graduates and school leavers are becoming increasingly scarce.
With trainee opportunities spread across Albert Goodman's network of offices, departments and qualifications, the 2026 intake sees the recruits embarking on professional qualifications while gaining hands-on experience within the business.
The programme, which has operated in its current format since 2023, saw trainees join the firm throughout the year, with four recruits joining in March, ten in July, fourteen in August and one due to start in September.
The strength of the programme is also reflected in the achievements of Albert Goodman’s existing trainees. The firm recently recorded a 100% pass rate across 23 ACA Final exam results, with six trainees now fully qualified and a further four on track to complete their qualifications in November.
Among this year’s cohort is a career changer who has already begun building a successful career at Albert Goodman, having joined the firm as an Executive Administrator in the Personal Tax team before moving into a training role.
The announcement comes against a backdrop of growing concern around graduate employment opportunities. Recent national reporting has highlighted a significant decline in graduate vacancies, with employers citing factors such as rising costs and the increasing use of artificial intelligence as reasons for reduced entry-level recruitment.
Iain McVicar, Managing Partner at Albert Goodman, said: "At a time when many organisations are rethinking their approach to entry-level recruitment, we remain committed to investing in people and developing talent for the future."
"The accountancy profession is built on expertise, relationships and trusted advice, and while technology continues to evolve, there will always be a need for talented individuals who can support clients and businesses through complex decisions. Our trainee programme creates opportunities for people from a wide range of backgrounds to build rewarding careers, whether they are graduating from university, leaving school or changing career direction altogether."
"We're delighted to welcome this year's cohort and look forward to supporting them throughout their professional journey with Albert Goodman."
The trainee programme forms a key part of Albert Goodman's long-term approach to talent development, providing structured training, professional qualifications and practical experience across a range of specialisms. It also reflects the firm's commitment to creating career opportunities across the South West, helping talented individuals develop their careers without having to leave the region.
Today, many of the firm's senior leaders started their careers through trainee routes, demonstrating the long-term opportunities available to those joining the business at the beginning of their professional journeys. Previously, Albert Goodman highlighted the progression of Partner Tom Stone, who joined the firm as a school leaver before progressing to become a partner within the business.
Founded in 1866, Albert Goodman is one of the South West's largest independent firms of chartered accountants, tax consultants and financial planners, supporting businesses and individuals across the region through a network of offices including Taunton, Bristol, Yeovil, Weston-super-Mare and Weymouth.