Chartered accountants Clement Keys has taken on seven new trainees for the current year, taking the number of staff undergoing professional training to 26, and the total workforce to 110. 

"Whilst many companies are suspending their training programmes, Clement Keys is committed to bringing in new talent and the continual professional development for all staff. 

"Bringing in new trainees every year is an important part of our growth strategy," says partner Ross Cocker. "We are dedicated to ensuring our staff levels allow our clients to receive the personal service that they expect from Clement Keys."

Partner Simon Atkins says, "This year seven young people from a variety of backgrounds will take advantage of our flexible study opportunities while also getting the crucial hands on experience that can only come from playing a key role within their respective departments."

Chris Mander and Eleanor Sillence join the firm as post 'A' Level entrants and will be studying the Association of Accounting Technician (AAT) qualification, working in the general Audit and Accountancy Department. 

Nichola Venables and Victoria Nolan are Graduate ACA trainees. Nichola worked for the firm in the summer of 2006 and, having enjoyed the experience, decided to return and train to become a Chartered Accountant. Victoria obtained a First Class Honours Degree in Economics and French at the University of Birmingham.

Ashley Clews and Elisha Simms have been recruited to join the service charge team - a department that has continued to grow over recent years. Ashley joins the firm as a post 'A' Level entrant and will also study the AAT. He obtained A Levels in Accounting, Applied Business and Law from Dudley College. Elisha joins as a part-qualified AAT and will continue her studies to become fully qualified.

Sophie Bradshaw joined Clement Keys in July on a six month contract in the service charge department. Sophie is currently studying for her 'A' Levels in Mathematics, Business Studies and Psychology at Haybridge High School.