Cowgills is proud to be part of the Sumer Group, one of the UK s fastest-growing accountancy practices. Together, we re creating brighter futures for our people, our clients, and our communities.
We re now inviting applications for our Early Careers Trainee Programme, designed for those ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in accountancy. Whether your passion lies in Accounts or Tax, you ll gain the skills, qualifications and experience to become a fully qualified professional, supported every step of the way.
Role Overview
You ll be joining a friendly, professional team where enthusiasm, curiosity and commitment are valued as highly as experience.From day one, you ll work with a range of clients, gaining hands‑on experience within Accounts or Tax. Depending on the team you join, this could include preparing accounts or providing insightful tax and business advice.
As your confidence grows, so will your responsibilities. You ll have opportunities to work directly with clients, contribute to projects, and gain a real understanding of how successful businesses operate.
We ll equip you with the technical training and personal skills development you need to progress, ensuring you build a strong foundation for a long‑term career in accountancy.
The programme
You ll join a training contract, combining practical client experience with professional study towards your qualification (AAT, ACA or ATT).
Alongside your qualification, you ll become part of the Sumer Academy, our dedicated early careers development programme. The Academy runs alongside your studies, offering a blend of online and in‑person learning, focused on building both your technical and soft skills that will help you thrive in your future career.
You ll also train as part of a group‑wide cohort, connecting with other trainees from across the Sumer Group to share experiences and learn together.
What s on offer
- Full study support, including paid study leave and course fees
- Buddy and mentoring systems to help you settle in and progress
- Group‑wide cohort training through the Sumer Academy
- Opportunities to grow your career beyond qualification
- Exposure to a diverse range of clients and projects
About You
To apply, you ll need a strong A-Level or equivalent academic history, including a minimum of a Grade C/5 in English and B/6 in Maths at GCSE level (or equivalent).
You ll also be:
- An effective communicator confident in listening and expressing ideas clearly with clients and colleagues.
- Collaborative a team player who enjoys sharing ideas and working together to achieve great results.
- Time efficient able to balance work and study with good organisation and prioritisation.
- A problem solver curious, adaptable and ready to take on challenges.
- Results focused proud to deliver a high standard of work and service.
- Keen to learn enthusiastic about developing your skills and career.
The Process
Our application process is designed to help you show your best self:
- Application Review
- Online testing (behavioural, numerical and comprehension)
- Assessment Centre & Individual Interview
- Offer
Key Dates
- Advert closes: 15th November
- Online tests to be sent out to shortlisted candidates: 18th November
- Deadline for completing online tests: 24th November
- Assessment Centres: 9th & 10th December at our Bolton office.
Key Details
- Location: Suite 202 & 204, Cotton Exchange, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L3 9LQ
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday
- Start Date: September 2027
Early Careers Trainee in West Kirby employer: Cowgills
Cowgills is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As a leading independent chartered accountancy firm, we provide our team with the opportunity to engage in meaningful client relationships while fostering a collaborative environment where everyone's contributions are valued. Located in a vibrant region, our commitment to fairness and diversity ensures that all employees can thrive and shine together.
