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Our commitment to developing the next generation of professionals is at the heart of everything we do, and our student placements play a crucial role in providing practical and honest learning experiences that set eager, young professionals up for long term success.

One inspiring example is Katie Morris, a former University placement student who has now transitioned into a full time role as Tax Consultant within our Accountancy team. Her journey in particular highlights the value of student placements in bridging the gap between academic learning and professional development.

Why #TeamDA?

Katie has always had an affinity for numbers, so when it came to choosing a career accountancy felt like a good option to explore. Encouraged by family friends in the field, she decided to take the leap, a decision that set her on a journey toward a challenging yet rewarding and varied career.

As she began her search for an industry placement while studying Accountancy and Finance at Liverpool John Moores University, Katie wanted to bring her skills back home to Cumbria and a search for local accountancy businesses led her to David Allen.

“David Allen really caught my eye as a growing accountancy practice with a supportive, team-spirited culture; the ideal place to kickstart my career, where I could learn, develop and be part of a great team.

Katie describes her placement year with us as a pivotal moment in her career journey where she developed key technical skills and, most importantly, grew in confidence.  Our practice’s supportive and flexible approach offered her and other aspiring professionals, the environment to thrive, with every team member playing their part in helping to nurture rising talent with deep appreciation for the fact that every expert was once a beginner.

“If I were to describe my placement in three words, they would be: supportive, insightful and flexible.  The accountancy team’s knowledge and extensive experience helped me learn so much. They were always there to offer guidance when I needed it, and the flexibility made balancing work and studies stress-free.”

Reflecting on her journey, I asked Katie what advice she might offer to other students seeking the right choice of placement for a long term, fulfilling career.

“Just say yes to any opportunity you’re given. The worst that could happen is you don’t like it, and then that’s one more thing you have learnt about yourself.”

This key piece of advice really instils the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences in those early days of your career.

The support we offered not only enhanced Katie’s final year of studies but also gave her real world insights that prepared her for the future.  Combining this with the quality of education and strong industry connections she received from Liverpool John Moores University, meant that Katie gained the skills and confidence to contribute fresh ideas to our ever-growing team.

Now, as a valued member of our team, she brings enthusiasm and a passion for accountancy that continues to shape the future of our practice.

If you are considering accountancy, finance or business and looking for an industry placement in Cumbria, please email a cover letter to careers@david-allen.co.uk with your CV explaining what experience you are looking for, what attracts you to working at David Allen and what you would bring to #TeamDA.