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Accountants & Business Advisers

Internships

If you are looking for a 12-month internship as part of your university degree, our Internship Programme offers a valuable opportunity to find out more about a career in accountancy or tax whilst earning and acquiring new skills and experience. We may even end up offering you a place on our Graduate Programme too!

What you’ll do

Currently we offer 12-month internships in our Business Tax team only, though internships can become available in other service lines based on business need.

During a Business Tax internship you will learn and experience:

  • How a company’s corporation tax return works and how it links to the company’s accounts.
  • Perform first reviews of basic corporation tax computations and returns.
  • Assist directors and managers with a wide range of tax consultancy projects. 
  • Attend meetings alongside a manager and become a point of contact for some of the clients you work on.
  • Be comfortable dealing with HMRC over the phone.

You will also be able to study for the ATT Foundation Qualification in Business Tax to enhance your technical learning and provide further insight in the world of tax.

What we’re looking for

Your application will not be based on academic qualifications alone and so you will need:

  • Predicted minimum 2:2 in any degree subject
  • A keen interest in Business Tax
  • An inquisitive mind
  • A good problem solver
  • Enthusiasm for learning
  • Strong communication skills
  • Three A-levels or equivalent at A*-C
  • Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE Maths and English Language
What we offer

Throughout your internship you will benefit from:

  • A competitive salary
  • 23 days annual holiday, plus your birthday as an extra day off
  • Pension scheme
  • A buddy, and line manager, to support you
  • Hybrid working
  • Mental Heath First Aiders in all offices
  • Social committee in each office
  • Flexible benefits scheme including cycle to work scheme, dental insurance, life assurance, free flu jabs
How to apply

The first step is to complete our quick and easy online application form, to give us some essential information, and upload your CV.

If you successfully make it through the initial screening process, you will be invited to one of our Assessment Days where you will undertake various activities both individually and in a group.

If you are successful at the Assessment Day, we will then invite you to join our new intake of students, starting in late August each year.

Key Dates

We have filled all our available opportunities for our 2024 intake.

Applications for our 2025 intake will open in September 2024.

  • I am currently a student at Durham University undertaking a placement year at James Cowper Kreston in the Turnaround, Restructuring and Insolvency department. The firm have provided me with a solid foundation that will help me take the next step towards my desired career. James Cowper has been an ideal place to work, from their comprehensive training programme to their extremely supportive team members. I’ve been involved in projects that have pushed me out of my comfort zone and have gained invaluable experience because of this. I’ve enjoyed putting my ability and knowledge to the test with the fast paced assignments and variety of work that I do at James Cowper. My line manager has been there to support me throughout and I have been able to learn a great deal working alongside her.

    Govind Menon, Intern

  • I am truly thankful to everyone at James Cowper Kreston who has supported me during my placement. Working with the Business Tax team has been an amazing experience and I am grateful for the knowledge and guidance I have received over the past year. Overall it has been an incredible journey where I have not only gained a greater understanding of tax but also further developed my professional and personal skills. I feel privileged to have been given the opportunity!

    Aleen Cheema, Intern