Record student intake future-proofs Cooper Parry

Leading accountants Cooper Parry are investing strongly in the future – with over 140 new trainees marking their biggest student intake to date.

This year 102 new trainees are joining the group across its seven UK hubs, with an additional 45 already on board from earlier this year.

To mark the occasion, Cooper Parry hosted its annual Launchpad event — a special induction programme at The Studio in Birmingham to enable new joiners to get their first taste of CP life, culture, and values.

CEO Ade Cheatham said: “Welcoming over 140 new trainees to Cooper Parry this year is another huge milestone for us — and a reflection of the energy, ambition and growth we’re driving across the firm.

“These fresh faces bring new perspectives, curiosity and a hunger to learn, and we’re excited to support them as they kick off their careers. Launchpad is more than an induction — it’s the start of a journey where they’ll be challenged, empowered and celebrated every step of the way.”

Launchpad provided an opportunity for new recruits to learn more about what makes CP different and included a range of topics from people fundamentals to sustainability and resilience coaching.

After Launchpad, most trainees will head into seven days of technical training within their new business areas before getting involved with real client work.

Trainees are joining from across the UK, with the new intake going to offices in the East Midlands, London, Reading, Birmingham, Manchester, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

This year’s cohort is spread across a variety of business areas, with the majority joining Cooper Parry’s 800+ strong Audit team.

Others are stepping into roles in Tax, Business Services Outsourcing, Corporate Finance, and Operations, entering at different stages of their careers— from graduates and placement students to school leavers. The intake comprises 105 graduates, 21 school leavers and 19 placement students.

Applications for the group’s 2026 trainee intake are now open. Anyone who has just completed their A Levels, Degree, or had some time out, and wants to find out more can take a look at early careers roles.