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- Tasks: Assist with accounts preparation, audits, and tax computations in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join PEM, Cambridge’s largest independent accountancy firm, for an exciting career.
- Benefits: Enjoy a market-leading salary, 25 days leave, and flexible perks like gym discounts.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience while working towards your ACCA qualification in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum three A Levels (A or B grade) in relevant subjects and strong GCSE results required.
- Other info: Apply now to kickstart your journey with a friendly team in the heart of Cambridge.
Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO)
Join to apply for the Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO) role at PEM
Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO)
2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Join to apply for the Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO) role at PEM
Are you a recent school leaver or graduate looking for a rewarding career in accountancy?
Join PEM, Cambridge’s largest independent accountancy firm, as a Trainee Accountant in our Virtual Finance Office (VFO) team. This is your opportunity to gain hands on experience, earn a market leading salary, and work towards your ACCA qualification through our apprenticeship program. Start your exciting journey with PEM and enjoy a supportive, friendly work environment in the heart of Cambridge.
What will you be doing day to day?
As a Trainee Accountant, you’ll assist with accounts preparation, audit assignments, and basic tax computations.
You’ll work on both client sites and office-based projects, gaining exposure to our diverse and exciting client base across various industry sectors.
What do we offer?
You Will Join Our Dedicated Early Careers Training Programme On a 4 Year Apprenticeship To Become An ICAEW Qualified Chartered Accountant. Our Early Careers Training Programme Includes
- Comprehensive support to develop your skills and knowledge
- Market leading salary
- Fully-funded study package
- Bonuses for successfully passing exams first time
- 25 days annual leave
- Birthday leave
- Enhanced contributory pension scheme
- Free onsite parking
- Supported railcards
- Social events and team-building activities to foster a fun and engaging workplace
- GymFlex, shopping discounts, cycle to work and other flexible benefit options
- Access to modern technology and tools that enhance your work experience
- A friendly, supportive and flexible work environment
What are we looking for?
- A school leaver with a minimum of three A Levels (A or B grade) in relevant subjects (maths, business, economics, etc.)
- Strong GCSE results
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
- Professional approach with a good eye for detail
- Ability to work flexibly and supportively within a busy team
- Commitment to maintaining high professional standards
Next steps
Apply now and enjoy the benefits of working in Cambridge in a professional and friendly environment. Please follow these steps:
- Send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to recruitment@pem.co.uk.
- A member of our talent team will review your application and assess your suitability for the role.
- If selected, you will be invited for an initial call with our talent team where you can discuss your skills and experiences in more detail and crucially why you would like to join PEM’s early years programme.
- If successful, you will be asked to complete a number of short skills tests to evaluate your numerical, written reasoning and attention to detail skills.
- Candidates will have a final interview with team managers to discuss the role and your potential fit within the team.
- If selected, you will receive a formal offer, and we will guide you through the onboarding process to get you started on your exciting journey with PEM.
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Internship
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Accounting/Auditing and Finance
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Industries
Accounting
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Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO) – August 2025 employer: PEM
Contact Detail:
PEM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO) – August 2025
✨Tip Number 1
Research PEM and their Virtual Finance Office (VFO) to understand their values, culture, and the specific services they offer. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of PEM through platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and the company, and may even lead to a referral, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the initial call with the talent team by practising common interview questions related to accountancy and your motivation for applying. Be ready to discuss your A Level subjects and how they relate to the skills needed for the Trainee Accountant role.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with basic accounting principles and current trends in the finance industry. This will not only help you in the skills tests but also show your commitment to the field and readiness to learn as a Trainee Accountant.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) – Virtual Finance Office (VFO) – August 2025
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your academic achievements, particularly your A Levels and GCSEs. Emphasise any relevant subjects like maths, business, or economics, and include any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the Trainee Accountant role and explain why you want to join PEM's Early Careers Training Programme. Mention specific skills or experiences that make you a good fit for the position and how you align with their values.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your application is well-written and free of errors. Use clear and concise language to convey your points effectively, demonstrating your ability to communicate professionally.
Highlight Teamwork Experience: PEM values a supportive team environment, so include examples in your application that showcase your ability to work collaboratively. Whether through school projects, sports teams, or volunteer work, illustrate how you've contributed to a team setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at PEM
✨Research PEM and the Role
Before your interview, take some time to research PEM and understand their values, mission, and the specifics of the Trainee Accountant role. This will help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Common Interview Questions
Anticipate common interview questions such as 'Why do you want to work in accountancy?' or 'What are your strengths and weaknesses?'. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Trainee Accountant, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss examples from your studies or any relevant experiences where you've demonstrated these skills, especially in problem-solving scenarios.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the role, team dynamics, or the training programme. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you determine if PEM is the right fit for you.
