At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a School Leaver Audit Trainee and dive into exciting audit assignments.
- Company: Saffery is a renowned firm of chartered accountants with a rich history since 1855.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous leave, and a profit-sharing plan.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in a supportive environment while working towards your AAT and ACA qualifications.
- Qualifications: You need at least 120 UCAS points and strong GCSEs in Maths and English.
- Other info: Apply early as spots fill up quickly; we value diversity and inclusion.
Right now, we’re looking for A Level (or equivalent) students wanting to start their career as a trainee in audit. We’ll support you in becoming fully qualified within a 4 to 4.5 year period.
We have two study pathways:
- AAT Level 3 (2 papers only) and AAT Level 4 followed by an ACA apprenticeship. Exemptions to the ACA will only apply once you’re AAT Level 4 qualified.
- ACA apprenticeship only
We want you to have the best possible journey with Saffery and help you to achieve a high level of success in your exams. We have a dedicated Early Careers team who will consult with you throughout the recruitment process to explain and choose the best pathway for you.
Application windows:
- 17 September 2024 – 31 December 2024
- 14 February 2025 – 28 June 2025
Please note due to the high popularity of these positions, applications may close earlier than stated. We recommend applying as soon as possible.
What you’ll need:
- A minimum of 120 UCAS points in your A Levels (or equivalent), and
- A minimum of 6 (or B) in GCSE Maths and English Language (or equivalent).
Qualifying is not just about passing your exams; gaining valuable work experience is so important. You’ll work in a friendly and progressive environment on audit and accounts preparation assignments, with exposure to clients from different industries. We guarantee an exciting and varied learning experience.
By the end of your training contract, you’ll be comfortable handling whole files by yourself, preparing you for progression into a senior audit role.
What we’ll offer you:
Because you do the best job you can for our clients and your colleagues, we do everything we can for you. We provide a mixture of core and flexible benefits, all designed to save you money and make your life a little easier.
- Annual leave allowance, which increases in line with length of service,
- A 35-hour working week with flexibility around our core hours of 10am-4pm,
- A contributory pension plan (we’ll contribute 5% of salary on a matched basis with you from the date you join),
- Life assurance cover based on 4 x annual salary,
- Working from home allowance of £25 a month,
- Our Profit-Sharing Plan, enabling you to share in the firm’s profits (usually c. £1,000), and
- Paid overtime or time off in lieu.
We’re also committed to being a fully inclusive employer and have a huge focus on equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I).
Who we are:
Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, we’ve built long-term relationships with our diverse, high-profile clients, across varied and specialised sectors.
School Leaver Audit Trainee (AAT or ACA) - Leeds - September 2025 employer: Saffery Champness
Contact Detail:
Saffery Champness Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Leaver Audit Trainee (AAT or ACA) - Leeds - September 2025
✨Tip Number 1
Start networking early! Connect with professionals in the audit field through LinkedIn or local events. This can give you insights into the industry and potentially lead to referrals when you apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain relevant experience by seeking internships or part-time roles in finance or accounting. This will not only enhance your CV but also provide you with practical skills that are highly valued in audit positions.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the AAT and ACA qualifications. Understanding the requirements and structure of these pathways will help you articulate your commitment and readiness during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interviews by practising common questions related to audit and accounting. Being able to discuss your motivations and understanding of the role will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace School Leaver Audit Trainee (AAT or ACA) - Leeds - September 2025
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the School Leaver Audit Trainee position. Familiarise yourself with the AAT and ACA pathways to demonstrate your commitment to the role.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant academic achievements, particularly your A Levels and GCSE results. Include any work experience or extracurricular activities that showcase your skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you are interested in pursuing a career in audit and how the training offered aligns with your career goals. Be sure to convey your eagerness to learn and grow within the firm.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the audit profession.
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery Champness
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Saffery and its values. Understanding their commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion will help you align your answers with their ethos.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
As a School Leaver Audit Trainee, you may be asked about basic accounting principles or audit processes. Brush up on your knowledge of AAT and ACA pathways to demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Work Experience
Even if you haven't had formal work experience, think about any relevant projects or volunteer work you've done. Be ready to discuss how these experiences have prepared you for a career in audit.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about the training process, the Early Careers team's support, or the types of clients you might work with.