Its two new trainees – Natalia Cram and Daniel Lowden – have recently graduated from Robert Gordon University (RGU) with First Class honours degrees in Accounting and Finance.

Tasha McGregor will work for the practice while studying for a degree in Accounting and Finance and a professional qualification under the RGU Graduate Apprenticeship scheme, while Findlay Stewart is on placement with the firm in the third year of his studies at RGU.

Aberdeen-based Meston Reid & Co has a long track record of supporting aspiring accountants. It has accepted placement students from RGU’s Accounting and Finance degree in all but two of the past 26 years.

Natalia, originally from Middlesbrough and former pupil of Bridge of Don Academy, was previously a placement student with Meston Reid from 2021/2022 for her third-year university placement experience.

Daniel, who attended Robert Gordon’s College, previously completed work experience with Meston Reid while in his fifth year at school. During university, he achieved third place in the Stage 3 Audit Prize.

Graduate apprentice Tasha, who attended Banchory Academy, has gained an HND at North East Scotland College and previously worked within the cash office at a local supermarket.

Placement student Findlay who studied initially at Kincorth Academy – then Lochside Academy, has achieved four silver medals in boxing with two being achieved at Scottish Championships and two at Northern District competitions.

Louise Smith, business services manager in the audit and accounts department, was Meston Reid’s first student placement before going on to gain her Accounting and Finance degree from Robert Gordon University. After university, she became a qualified chartered accountant with ICAS through a traineeship with Meston Reid & Co.

She said: “It is truly rewarding to be able to invest in the future of our profession. The team at Meston Reid are immensely proud of our track record of developing and training young accountants.

“It’s brilliant to see so many graduates return to the firm, having taken them through placement opportunities in the past. It gives us great pleasure to welcome our new trainees on board.”