At a Glance
- Tasks: Kickstart your career in Accounts while studying for the ACA qualification.
- Company: Join a progressive firm with a supportive and friendly culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy profit-sharing, flexible work, generous leave, and health resources.
- Other info: Access mentorship and career progression in an inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Gain real-world experience with high-profile clients and diverse projects.
- Qualifications: 120 UCAS points and GCSE Maths & English at grade B or above.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Are you looking to start your career in Accounts? We’re seeking ambitious individuals from all backgrounds to join our team as a trainee, studying towards the ACA qualification.
About the programme
Our training contract takes 4 years to complete with full support and access to first‑class tuition centres. If you’re AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions; otherwise, we ask all trainees to complete the full ACA syllabus. Studying alongside a cohort gives the best chance of exam success.
What you’ll do
Your growth doesn't just come from exams; it comes from valuable work experience and real‑world learning. You'll work in a friendly and progressive environment in a client‑facing, fast‑paced role which includes advisory elements and often deals with high‑profile clients. The work is varied and ranges from typical year‑end compliance through to ad‑hoc advisory and project work. The client base is a mix of sole traders, partnerships, limited companies, limited liability partnerships, trusts and smaller private charities.
- Preparing management accounts, including reconciling all key account balances and tailoring the presentation specific to each client
- Assisting and advising clients on issues in their accounting systems, including software migration
- Agreeing and executing payment runs on clients’ behalf using a variety of online banking platforms
- Preparing VAT and Intrastat returns
- Preparation of year‑end financial statements
- Carrying out and reviewing ad‑hoc tasks such as cash flows, budgets and information for third parties
- Maintaining relationships with clients and taking ownership of projects and tasks as appropriate
- Processing work on Xero, and other accounting software
What you’ll need
A minimum of 120 UCAS points from your top 3 A Levels (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels. A minimum of 6 (or B) in GCSE Maths and English Language (or equivalent). AAT qualified (preferred). If you have over 12 months relevant experience within a training contract at another firm, we recommend exploring part‑qualified opportunities on our Experienced Hire vacancy page.
What we’ll offer you
- Profit‑sharing scheme (approx. £1,000 per year)
- Generous annual leave & flexible work arrangements
- Contributory pension plan (5% salary match)
- Buddy scheme and/or line manager support
- Agile working policy (up to three days working from home, with encouragement to be in office first few months)
- Health assessments, GP access, & cancer screenings
- Access to mental health & wellbeing resources
- Mentorship & career progression opportunities
- Participation in our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) programme
- Volunteer to join one of our People networks including Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility and Women
School Leaver Accounts Trainee (ACA) - Bournemouth - January 2027 employer: Saffery Champness
Join a dynamic and supportive team in Bournemouth as a School Leaver Accounts Trainee, where you'll receive comprehensive training towards your ACA qualification while gaining invaluable real-world experience. Our inclusive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering generous benefits such as a profit-sharing scheme, flexible working arrangements, and access to mental health resources, ensuring you thrive both in and out of the office. With a commitment to diversity and career progression, this is an excellent opportunity for ambitious individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the accounting field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Leaver Accounts Trainee (ACA) - Bournemouth - January 2027
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or at events. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the role. It’s all about making connections that can help us get our foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to accounts. We should also be ready to discuss how we can add value to the team. Show them we’re not just about qualifications, but also about enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express our appreciation. It keeps us fresh in their minds and shows our genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team and makes it easier for us to track our application status.
We think you need these skills to ace School Leaver Accounts Trainee (ACA) - Bournemouth - January 2027
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the School Leaver Accounts Trainee role. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or part-time jobs that showcase your interest in accounts and your ability to learn quickly.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about starting a career in accounts and how you align with our values. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Academic Achievements:Don’t forget to mention your UCAS points and GCSE results! We want to see your academic journey, so make sure these details are clear and easy to find in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status easily!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery Champness
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting basics and be ready to discuss key concepts. Since this role involves preparing management accounts and VAT returns, showing that you understand these areas will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Ambition
This position is all about growth and learning. Be prepared to talk about your career aspirations and how the ACA qualification fits into your plans. Highlight any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ambition and commitment to the field.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Software
Since you'll be processing work on Xero and other accounting software, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these tools. Mention any experience you have with accounting software during the interview to show you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company culture, training opportunities, and client interactions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
