At a Glance
- Tasks: Kickstart your career as an ACA Trainee, gaining hands-on experience in accountancy.
- Company: Join Duncan & Toplis, a leading independent accountant with a century of expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, mental health support, and a rewarding benefits package.
- Other info: Diverse learning opportunities and a commitment to inclusivity await you.
- Why this job: Make an impact while studying for a fully funded level seven apprenticeship.
- Qualifications: A 2:1 degree or equivalent and a proactive attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 14000 £ per month.
Overview
Head of Talent | Neurodiversity Champion | Driving Inclusive, Future-Ready Workforces
Jumpstart Your Career with Duncan & Toplis!
Looking to kickstart your career in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment? Duncan & Toplis is one of the UK’s largest independent accountants and business advisers. Celebrating our 100-year anniversary in 2025, we are on course for the biggest period of growth in our history. Our vision to be the team that clients always choose to work with and where talented people belong remains at the forefront and guides everything that we do.
Unlock Your Potential
At Duncan & Toplis, we believe in nurturing talent and providing ambitious individuals with the tools to succeed. Our commitment to your professional and personal growth is matched by our dedication to our core values: Trust, Partnership, and Inclusivity. If you’re a proactive self-starter who thrives on challenges, has a hunger for learning, and is eager to make an impact, you’re exactly who we’re looking for.
As a graduate trainee accountant, you will be enrolled on a three-year training contract for a fully funded level seven apprenticeship. You will be supported by your team to carry out the initial preparation of client accounts and assist with audits where necessary. You will also prepare tax computations, opening balance agreements, engagement letters, and general administration as required, while studying to achieve your professional qualification.
Joining our team means gaining hands-on experience in our Business Services, Tax, and Assurance hubs. This diverse learning plan is designed to give you a well-rounded understanding of the industry, helping you discover the right career path for you. You’ll sharpen your analytical and research skills, take ownership of meaningful tasks, and develop a proactive mindset—while receiving the support you need to thrive.
Communication is key at Duncan & Toplis. You’ll learn to explain complex financial information with confidence, setting you apart from the crowd. We value your growth as much as you do, and we’re here to help you succeed every step of the way.
Your Path to Success
Joining us as an ACA Trainee, the minimum qualification we require is a degree at 2:1 or equivalent. You need to be an ambitious, outgoing individual looking to start their career in accountancy, with a determined mindset to succeed, and the ability to manage a busy workload while working to strict deadlines. It would be advantageous to have some of the following skills, but we welcome all applicants to join our talented team:
- Good verbal and written communication
- Time management to balance work and study
- Collaborative to work effectively as part of a wider team
What does this role involve?
As an ACA Trainee, working as part of a team, you will provide client work to your direct line manager within specified deadlines and in a format that is compliant with Duncan & Toplis practice standards.
You will develop and maintain the professional competencies necessary to provide a high-quality service to clients, contributing to the company’s reputation, strength and success. Deadlines will require flexibility to ensure service delivery is in line with the company’s culture and core values.
You will maintain fairness, equality, diversity, and inclusivity in everything that you do, you will also be a team player with a positive attitude and suitable IT skills.
What to expect?
We want ambitious individuals looking to start their career in accountancy.
During the first twelve months of the course, you’ll learn the fundamental principles of accountancy and how they relate to financial management within a business. This includes accounting, assurance, business and finance, law, management information and taxation principles.
As you progress, you’ll look at these principles in greater, more complex levels of detail with the opportunity to specialise in certain areas of particular interest. The qualification includes the requirement for practical work experience, with a minimum of 450 days completed while studying—this requirement will be met while you are working with us at Duncan & Toplis.
The ACA qualification will grant trainees membership to the ICAEW—a database of trusted chartered accountants. The association will support your career, help to expand your skills and keep you up to date with the latest financial developments.
Duncan & Toplis provides trainees with full support towards both professional and personal development. We also offer the opportunity to regularly work with senior industry professionals while obtaining a well-respected qualification.
Why Duncan & Toplis?
As a member of our team, you’ll enjoy flexible working arrangements that balance your professional and personal life. You’ll split your time between the office and your studies, ensuring a smooth transition into your career.
Our benefits package is designed with you in mind. From mental health support to volunteering opportunities and a discretionary Christmas bonus, we offer perks that make your experience at Duncan & Toplis rewarding and fulfilling.
Championing Diversity & Inclusion
We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels they belong. Duncan & Toplis embraces diversity and values the unique experiences and perspectives each team member brings. Our inclusive culture fuels innovation and aligns with our mission to provide meaningful solutions to our clients.
Join Us
Ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling career? Our interview process includes an online aptitude and ability test, followed by a Teams interview. Successful candidates will receive job offers for a January 2026 start. Applications close on Friday 24th October 2025.
The GIA test will be issued to candidates who are pre-shortlisted during the week commencing 27th October.
In-person assessments will then be conducted for those who progress to the final shortlist, in our Grantham office during the week of 10/11 and 17/11.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow with Duncan & Toplis—apply now!
ACA Trainee in Grantham employer: Duncan & Toplis
Duncan & Toplis is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a fully funded level seven apprenticeship for ACA Trainees. With a commitment to inclusivity and a supportive work culture, you will gain hands-on experience in various accounting disciplines while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your professional journey. Join us in a dynamic environment where your contributions are valued, and your career aspirations can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ACA Trainee in Grantham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Duncan & Toplis inside out! Research their values, culture, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll need to explain complex financial info, try explaining it to friends or family. The more comfortable you are with the material, the more confident you'll be in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend any events they host. Building relationships can give you insider tips and might even lead to a referral—always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Duncan & Toplis and ready to kickstart your career!
We think you need these skills to ace ACA Trainee in Grantham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for accountancy shine through! We want to see that you're not just looking for a job, but that you're genuinely excited about starting your career with us.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the ACA Trainee role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with our values of Trust, Partnership, and Inclusivity. This will help us see how you fit into our team!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your written application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate good communication skills, so show us you can express your thoughts effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duncan & Toplis
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of accountancy and the specific role of an ACA Trainee. Brush up on key concepts like tax computations and client account preparation. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to dive into the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since communication is key at Duncan & Toplis, practice explaining complex financial information in simple terms. You might be asked to demonstrate this during the interview, so think of examples where you've successfully communicated difficult concepts before.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Duncan & Toplis values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams. Share specific examples of how you contributed to group projects or supported your colleagues, highlighting your positive attitude and adaptability.
✨Time Management is Crucial
As an ACA Trainee, you'll need to juggle work and study. Be ready to talk about how you manage your time effectively. Consider sharing strategies you've used in the past to balance multiple commitments, especially under tight deadlines.
