At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with accounts, audits, and tax returns while studying for your ACA qualification.
- Company: Respected regional firm of Chartered Accountants with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: £24,000 salary, funded ACA support, paid overtime, and social events.
- Why this job: Start your accountancy career locally with excellent training and development opportunities.
- Qualifications: On track for a 2:1 degree and ideally numerical A Levels.
- Other info: Join a team of trainees in Carlisle and enjoy flexible working hours.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 £ per year.
This highly respected regional firm of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers are looking to recruit a Graduate ACA Trainee for their Carlisle office, starting in September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for a local graduate who wants to train as a Chartered Accountant (ACA) without relocating to a large city. The firm has a long‑established presence in the region, a strong reputation for staff development, and a genuinely supportive culture that makes it an ideal place to start a long‑term career in accountancy.
Why this firm?
- Excellent training and development, including a funded ACA support package
- Work alongside around 8 other trainees, all based in Carlisle
- Regular company social events
- Option to flex your 37 hour week around the core hours of 09:30‑16:00
- Paid overtime options
What would I be doing?
- Assisting with preparing accounts, audits, tax returns and compliance work
- Studying towards your ACA qualification with structured firm support
- Supporting client work across diverse sectors including agriculture, charities, and local SMEs
- Working closely with experienced professionals and partners; attending client meetings, and developing both your technical skills and commercial awareness
- Learning to provide valuable business insight and advice, not just numbers
- Attending client meetings and building strong relationships grounded in trust and integrity
Salary and benefits
- £24,000 base salary + funded ACA support package
- Overtime compensated through pay or time off in lieu
- Enhanced pension options and life assurance cover
- Firm‑funded social events throughout the year
Requirements
- On track for a 2:1 or above - any degree subject
- Ideally numerical subjects at A Level, or equivalent
- Local to Carlisle, Cumbria
- Full driver’s licence and car
- Keen to pursue a 3‑year ACA training contract in Carlisle
How to Apply
If you are a 2026 graduate based in or near Carlisle and are considering a career in chartered accountancy, please apply with your CV. We would love to hear from you.
Graduate Audit and Accounts Trainee (ACA) in Carlisle employer: Graduate Recruitment Bureau
Contact Detail:
Graduate Recruitment Bureau Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Audit and Accounts Trainee (ACA) in Carlisle
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals for a chat. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching the firm and practising common questions. Show them you’re not just about numbers; demonstrate your passion for accountancy and how you can contribute to their team. Confidence is key!
✨Follow Up
After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love hearing from local graduates who are eager to kickstart their careers in accountancy.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Audit and Accounts Trainee (ACA) in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Graduate Audit and Accounts Trainee role. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects, especially those related to accountancy or finance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for accountancy and why you want to join this firm specifically. Mention how their supportive culture and training opportunities excite you.
Showcase Your Local Knowledge: Since this role is based in Carlisle, it’s a great idea to mention your connection to the area. Talk about why you want to stay local and how you can contribute to the community through your work.
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, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Graduate Recruitment Bureau
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting principles and be ready to discuss them. This role is all about numbers, so showing that you understand the basics of accounts and audits will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Passion for Accountancy
Express why you want to pursue a career in accountancy and what excites you about the ACA qualification. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your interest in this field.
✨Research the Firm
Familiarise yourself with the firm’s history, values, and the sectors they work with. Being able to discuss how you align with their culture and goals will demonstrate your genuine interest in joining their team.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows that you’re engaged and serious about the opportunity. Consider asking about the training process or the types of clients you might work with.