At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as an Apprentice Accountant, handling accounts and tax services while learning on the job.
- Company: Richardsons is a trusted Oxfordshire firm of Chartered Accountants with over 30 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent tuition, flexible hours, and regular staff socials while earning a competitive wage.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience, study for AAT and ACA qualifications, and build strong client relationships.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths (grade 5+) and A Levels (grade C+) are essential.
- Other info: Flexible work scheme allows Friday afternoons off; training provided by First Intuition in Reading.
Overview
We are currently looking for a candidate to fill a role which includes the opportunity to study for the AAT and then potentially moving towards becoming a chartered accountant and obtaining the ACA (ICAEW). Work as part of a supportive team alongside fantastic clients. This role is to provide a range of accountancy and taxation services.
Wage and hours
Β£14,722.50 to Β£23,809.50, depending on your age. Pay increases as progression is made. An employment start date can be agreed. Hours are Monday to Friday, between 08:30 β 17:00 in the office in Thame. We have a flexible work scheme whereby you can take off Friday afternoons if you wish. 37 hours 30 minutes a week.
Timeline
Start date: Friday 1 May 2026. Duration: 3 years. Positions available: 1.
Work and training
Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You\\\βll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.
What you\\\βll do at work
- Statutory accounts preparation
- Statutory audits
- Specialist audits (e.g., charity commission, SRA, pension regulator)
- Tax compliance β personal and corporate
- Providing ad hoc advice
- Supporting other members of the team and working closely with clients
Where you\\\βll work
30 UPPER HIGH STREET, THAME, OX9 3EZ
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You\\\βll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
FIRST INTUITION READING LIMITED
Training course
Assistant accountant (level 3)
What you\\\βll learn
- Assist with the investigation and response to financial information queries.
- Record and analyse financial data using the organisation\\\βs standard tools and processes.
- Apply double entry bookkeeping and accounting standards to process financial documents, generate financial statements and report financial information to users of accounts.
- Assist with production of accurate financial information for the preparation of accounts.
- Reconcile financial data, such as, preparation of reconciliations or review of reconciliations.
- Investigate, resolve or escalate transactional queries and errors within their remit as appropriate.
- Develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders.
- Communicate financial information in a way that non-finance stakeholders can interpret and understand.
- Utilise digital skills to present key financial information using finance and accounting software and applications.
- Use software packages to assist with basic accounting tasks in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data.
- Communicate using varying approaches and different media methods with an appreciation of the risks and benefits to the business of social media and other digital applications.
Training schedule
Training will take place at First Intuition in Reading or Milton Keynes. On average, the training will take place on one day per week. Specialist courses are also provided in-house.
More training information
The training provider is a fantastic firm that has been established for a number of years. They provide AAT tuition (levels 3 & 4) in well-structured courses.
Once the AAT is complete, there is the potential to move on towards the ACA qualification. This takes approximately three years to complete, and our training provider for this course is the Reed Business School, near Chipping Norton. There is the option to stay here on a residential basis during the time you are studying there.
Requirements
Essential qualifications
GCSE in:
- English and maths (grade 5+)
A Level in:
- Various (grade C+)
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Skills
- Communication skills
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Team working
About this employer
Richardsons is an Oxfordshire based firm of Chartered Accountants and business advisors based in Thame. ICAEW accredited and established for over 30 years, we provide specialist accounting advice for small and medium companies, as well as large corporates and individuals. We like to communicate regularly with our clients to form a close relationship built on trust, and over 60% of our new clients have come from existing client recommendations.
Website: http://www.richardsons-group.co.uk (opens in new tab)
Company benefits
Excellent tuition, internal courses, fantastic support from experienced staff, structure line management and regular staff socials.
After this apprenticeship
After completing the AAT qualification, we would expect the candidate to move on towards studying the ACA (ICAEW) qualification. Most of the Managers and Directors are \\\βhome grown\\\β, having completed their training with Richardsons, so career progression is good.
Apply and how to respond
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000012458. Closes on Friday 13 March 2026.
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Apprentice Accountant employer: Government jobs, apprenticeship
Contact Detail:
Government jobs, apprenticeship Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Accountant
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the AAT and ACA qualifications. Understanding the requirements and content of these courses will not only help you during the interview but also show your genuine interest in the role and your commitment to professional development.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former apprentices at Richardsons or similar firms. They can provide valuable insights into the apprenticeship experience, the work culture, and what skills are most valued, which can help you tailor your approach.
β¨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your communication skills, especially in explaining financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders. This is a key part of the role, and demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively can set you apart from other candidates.
β¨Tip Number 4
Research Richardsons as a company. Understanding their values, client base, and the services they offer will allow you to align your answers during the interview with what they are looking for in a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Accountant
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Apprentice Accountant position. Understand the responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your GCSEs in English and Maths, as well as any A Levels or relevant qualifications. If you have any experience in accounting or customer service, be sure to mention that too.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your communication, organisation, and teamwork skills in your application. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully used these skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that explains why you are interested in the apprenticeship and how it aligns with your career goals. Mention your enthusiasm for learning and working with clients, as well as your commitment to achieving the AAT and ACA qualifications.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government jobs, apprenticeship
β¨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Richardsons and their values. Understanding their approach to accountancy and client relationships will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
β¨Prepare for Technical Questions
Since this role involves accountancy and taxation services, be ready to discuss basic accounting principles, such as double-entry bookkeeping. Brush up on your knowledge of financial statements and tax compliance to demonstrate your understanding.
β¨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As you'll be working closely with clients and team members, it's essential to communicate effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information in the past, especially to non-financial stakeholders.
β¨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer. Inquire about the training process, opportunities for progression after the apprenticeship, or how the team collaborates on projects. This shows your enthusiasm and interest in the role.