At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in accountancy through shadowing professionals and working on group projects.
- Company: Join MHA, a top 15 UK accountancy firm with a people-first approach.
- Benefits: Receive a certificate, digital badge, and lunch provided during the programme.
- Other info: Fast-track your apprenticeship application if you excel during the programme.
- Why this job: Explore diverse career paths in accountancy and boost your employability for future opportunities.
- Qualifications: Open to Year 12 students eager to learn and grow.
At MHA, we believe in more than just numbers, we believe in you. Our Leading with Ambition National Work Experience Programme is designed for Year 12 students looking for an immersive experience with a leading professional services firm. This programme is your chance to explore the diverse world of accountancy, including audit, tax, and accounts, and gain invaluable insights into the career paths that await you.
Who are we? We’re more than just accountants. We’re problem‑solvers, advisors, and trusted partners to businesses shaping the world around us. From fashion retailers and hospitality brands to renewable energy enterprises and gaming developers, our work impacts industries that matter to you. Ranked among the UK’s top 15 accountancy firms, we combine technical expertise with a people‑first approach to create real change.
We’ve won multiple awards, including Best Advisory Services at the Business Resilience Awards and National Firm of the Year at the British Accountancy Awards. We’ve also been recognised for our Graduate and Non‑Graduate Programme of the Year, showcasing our commitment to supporting career growth for people from all backgrounds.
What’s in it for you? It’s more than just work experience. This five‑day immersive experience will give you hands‑on exposure to the world of accountancy and professional services. Here’s what you can expect:
- Shadow professionals across departments, including audit, tax, and accounts, to see what a career in these fields looks like.
- Work on group projects to develop teamwork, communication, and confidence.
- Get career insights on your chosen pathway.
- Take part in an employability session, where you’ll receive guidance on applications and selection processes for future roles.
- Discover MHA’s culture and values, and what it means to work in a firm that puts people first.
- Access national training resources, designed to help you build practical skills that set you apart.
By the end of the programme, you’ll receive a certificate and a digital badge, showcasing your experience and boosting your employability for apprenticeships, university applications, and future job opportunities. Furthermore, if you successfully complete the programme and decide to apply for our apprenticeship opportunities in the future, we will be able to fast‑track your application! (Subject to your performance during the programme and our apprenticeship eligibility criteria).
While this is an unpaid work experience opportunity, we want to make it accessible for you. That’s why we provide lunch throughout the week.
MHA - Leading with Ambition Work Experience - 2026 - Colchester employer: Access Accountancy
At MHA, we pride ourselves on being more than just an accountancy firm; we are a community that nurtures talent and fosters growth. Our Leading with Ambition Work Experience Programme in Colchester offers Year 12 students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment, where teamwork and personal development are at the forefront. With access to industry professionals, practical skills training, and a pathway to future apprenticeships, MHA is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders in the professional services sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land MHA - Leading with Ambition Work Experience - 2026 - Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past participants of the MHA programme on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. Building connections can give you insider knowledge and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview process by practising common questions related to accountancy and professional services. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to speak with MHA professionals, express your genuine interest in the work they do. Ask insightful questions that demonstrate your eagerness to learn and grow within the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace MHA - Leading with Ambition Work Experience - 2026 - Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm and passion for accountancy.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect why you’re interested in MHA and our Leading with Ambition programme. Highlight any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for us!
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!:Before hitting send, give your application a thorough read. Typos and errors can distract from your message, so take the time to ensure everything is polished and professional.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the info you need about the programme there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Access Accountancy
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research MHA and understand their values and services. Familiarise yourself with the different areas of accountancy they cover, like audit and tax. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your skills to what they do.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Talk about why you're interested in accountancy and how this work experience aligns with your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment and eagerness to learn.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the team culture, the types of projects you'll work on, or what a typical day looks like. Asking insightful questions shows that you're engaged and serious about the opportunity.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Do some mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence. Focus on common interview questions and practice articulating your thoughts clearly. The more comfortable you are speaking about yourself and your aspirations, the better you'll perform during the actual interview.
