AAT (School Leaver) Trainee 2026 in Norfolk

Our AAT trainee programme starts in September 2026 and we are looking for exceptional candidates to join the firm's Fakenham office, in the Business North team. If you would like to be considered for one of the positions, please complete our online application form and a member of the Recruitment team will be in touch after the closing date. Please note you do not have to be a recent school leaver to apply.

Responsibilities

This AAT Trainee opportunity is ideal for someone looking to begin their studies and undertake their AAT qualification while working in an award-winning Accountancy practice. In 2025, Larking Gowen won ‘Best benefits to support work-life balance’ at the National Employee Benefits awards. Every year we welcome A Level students. You will be enrolled on an Apprenticeship which will develop a wide range of business and personal skills, work‑based learning and professional qualifications. We offer Level 3 and Level 4 AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) apprenticeships. Your initial period of study and work experience will give you a good knowledge of various aspects of accountancy including auditing, accounts preparation, bookkeeping, personal and corporate tax and business development. You'll be able to earn while you learn with hands‑on experience of the business. We'll give you paid time off for study and flexible working. Once you've completed your studies, you will be given the opportunity to undertake further study to become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant (ACA) or Tax Advisor (CTA). Please note, the assessment day for this role will be in July.

As a firm we can offer you:

• Holiday 24 days (service accrual up to 27 days) plus 8 days bank holiday
• Professional subscriptions
• Funded study programme
• Medicash Plan
• Life Assurance
• Pension 5% employee 3% employer
• Annual salary review
• Exam rewards
• Option to purchase Private Medical Insurance
• Group Income Protection
• Salary of £24,000 FTE

Requirements

We’re looking for talented people who want to be a part of something bigger who share our vision and values. You must be a great relationship builder who can inspire people around you, who is confidential and approachable with strong communication skills. We have a flexible approach to academic entry requirements, depending on which area of the business you are interested in. We’ll consider your academic achievements, but your strengths, motivations and connection with us and our values are just as important. We’re looking for people with a broad range of interests and experiences.

At Larking Gowen, our people get the very best career opportunities in accountancy and business advice. Whether you're just starting out and you’re looking for an Apprenticeship or Graduate opportunity or you've been working in the business for some time, we'll make sure you get all the support you need to take you to the next step in your career and beyond. We pride ourselves on being a friendly business that looks after our people and is active in the community. As soon as you join us, you'll be working hands‑on, and starting to build your own professional relationships.

Larking Gowen has been around for more than 130 years. We have gone from strength to strength and have built our reputation for loyalty and reliability. We're also forward looking, keeping abreast of change in a fast‑moving environment.

Additional Benefits:

• Platinum credited training provider
• Pension scheme (salary exchange)
• Paid professional subscriptions
• Rewards for client referrals
• Social responsibility and charity support
• Social and sports activities
• Suggestion scheme and Innovation Fund
• Paid holiday and option to purchase additional holiday through salary exchange
• Corporate membership providing discounts on theatre and arts