Accounting and advisory firm Bishop Fleming has employed its highest number of apprentices to date. The milestone comes just a year after it became an accredited apprenticeship provider.

The company has taken on 57 new apprentices – 45 university graduates and 12 school leavers – which represents a 25% increase from last year’s count.

The apprentices will work across the company’s seven offices in Bath, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Torquay, Truro and Worcester. Each of the trainees will receive an extensive induction plan for 100 days as they start to undertake their qualifications from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) – which Bishop Fleming is a “Partner in Learning” with.

Bishop Fleming now currently employs over 430 people.

“I am delighted that we have recruited a record-breaking number of trainees yet again this year, particularly as we continue our growth across the South West and West Midlands,” said Bishop Fleming people director Anna Averis. “After the disruption of COVID-19, it is brilliant that we have been able to welcome them all in our offices this week and look forward to supporting them reach their full potential while undertaking their qualifications.”

“Despite a challenging 18 months, our business has performed well and is positioned to drive forward with ambitious growth. Our continued investment in our apprentices is proof of that, and I am particularly pleased that our scheme offers a variety of routes into a rewarding career in our business,” said Bishop Fleming managing partner Andrew Sandford.