At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Capital Allowances team and help clients maximise tax relief on commercial properties.
- Company: Saffery, a people-focused accountancy firm with a rich heritage since 1855.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible work, mentorship, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with excellent growth opportunities and a focus on personal development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in tax while working on exciting property and investment projects.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree and strong A Level results; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Are you interested in tax but also curious about property, construction and the built environment? We’re seeking ambitious individuals to join our specialist Capital Allowances team as a trainee, studying towards the ACA/CTA or ATT/CTA joint qualification. You’ll help businesses identify valuable tax relief on commercial buildings and capital investment projects, developing expertise in a highly specialised area that supports clients across the firm.
Who we are
Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, we’ve built long-term relationships with our diverse, high-profile clients, across varied and specialised sectors. As a proud member of Nexia, a worldwide network of trusted member firms, we’ve got access to local insight on a global scale. We pride ourselves on our informal and inclusive culture, building an environment where people can be themselves and enjoy challenging, interesting, rewarding careers.
Who we welcome
We recognise that talent comes from different paths, so we encourage applications from recent graduates or career changers. We do not expect applicants to have any prior relevant work experience. Our training contract takes three years and three months to complete with full support and access to first-class tuition centres. You’ll follow a structured development programme combining professional study with on-the-job learning. As your knowledge and confidence grow, you’ll take on more responsibility, contribute to more complex areas of work and build your confidence working directly with clients.
If you’re AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions; otherwise, we ask for all trainees to complete the full syllabus. We believe that studying alongside a cohort gives you the best chance of exam success.
About the team
The Capital Allowances team specialises in helping clients identify and maximise valuable tax relief on commercial property and capital expenditure. Unlike many areas of tax, the focus is not on preparing corporation tax computations or tax returns, but on understanding how buildings, refurbishments and investment projects can qualify for tax relief. The team supports clients across the UK and works closely with colleagues throughout Saffery’s national network, providing specialist expertise to a wide range of tax‑paying entities including companies, partnerships and landed estates. Capital Allowances sits within our broader Corporate Tax offering, but it is a highly specialised area that combines tax knowledge with an interest in property, construction and business investment.
Your role and development
Your growth doesn’t just come from exams; it comes from valuable work experience and real-world learning. We’ll support you every step of the way through mentorship, structured training, and our off‑site trainee programmes as well as regular social events to build friendships with colleagues.
What you’ll do
- Support the preparation of Capital Allowances analyses and claims for a diverse range of clients.
- Review financial records, property information, building plans and project documentation to identify qualifying expenditure.
- Assist in calculating the tax relief available on commercial buildings, refurbishments and development projects.
- Conduct technical research into Capital Allowances legislation and emerging tax developments.
- Collaborate with colleagues across Saffery’s national offices to provide specialist advice and support.
- Help prepare reports, calculations and technical documentation for review by senior team members.
- Build relationships with clients and gain exposure to a wide range of industries, property types and investment projects.
- Contribute to delivering practical solutions that help clients maximise available tax relief.
What you’ll learn
- How Capital Allowances legislation applies to commercial property and business investment.
- How to identify qualifying expenditure within buildings, acquisitions, refurbishments and development projects.
- The role Capital Allowances plays in improving cash flow and supporting business growth.
- How specialist tax relief claims are prepared and supported with robust technical analysis.
- How to analyse financial, legal and property‑related information to reach practical conclusions.
- How specialist advisory teams support clients alongside broader tax and accounting services.
- How to communicate technical tax concepts clearly and effectively to clients and colleagues.
What you’ll need
- 2:1 undergraduate degree (expected or obtained) in any discipline.
- 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).
We welcome applications from candidates who are AAT qualified. If you have completed AAT studies (up to Level 4) in place of Highers or A Levels, please detail this under the A Level section on your application form. 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.
We understand that confidence plays a role in job applications, and some candidates may hesitate to apply. If this role excites you and aligns with your career ambitions, we’d love to hear from you!
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)
- Work life balance & wellbeing
- Buddy scheme and/or line manager support
- Agile working policy (up to three days working from home, however in your first few months we do encourage up to 4 days in the office to reap the benefits of training around your managers and colleagues)
- 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 Gender Equality.
What to know before you apply
Before submitting your application, take some time to familiarise yourself with our recruitment process by visiting How to apply - Saffery. Through this page you can also navigate to guidance on how to appropriately use AI in your application. We also recommend practising psychometric tests and learning more about how to approach a face‑to‑face, competency‑based interview. This will help you feel confident and prepared to show your best self.
You can apply to just one of our programmes during each recruitment season. If your application isn’t successful this time, we’d love for you to try again when applications re‑open next September for the following year.
If you’ve experienced extenuating circumstances (such as bereavement, mental health challenges, or any other unforeseen situation), that may have impacted your academic performance, please reach out to us before you submit an application.
If you require any reasonable adjustments, please look out for further details throughout our assessment process on how to request throughout each stage of our application and assessment process. We’re committed to assessing all applicants fairly and want to do everything we can to support your success throughout the process.
If you are selected for an in‑person interview, we will provide reimbursement for your travel expenses. More information on what we cover will be shared at this stage of the process.
If you’re offered a place at Saffery, we kindly recommend holding off on booking any annual leave around your expected start date. This helps ensure you don’t miss out on important training and onboarding sessions that will set you up for success.
Graduate Capital Allowances Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - September 2027 employer: Saffery Champness
Saffery LLP is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees, offering a flexible hybrid working policy and a supportive work culture. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, the firm fosters an environment where every individual can thrive, while providing excellent benefits such as a contributory pension scheme and a profit-sharing plan. Located in London, this role as a Senior Data Analyst not only allows for professional development through challenging projects but also connects you with a global network of industry leaders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Capital Allowances Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - September 2027
✨Get Involved in Relevant Forums
Engage with tax advisory forums and communities, like TPR (Tax Policy Response) or local tax professionals' groups. This will not only help you to stay updated on the latest in tax law but can also connect you with professionals who might just be looking for a fresh trainee like you!
✨Leverage University Resources
Most universities have fantastic career services, especially for trainee roles in consulting. Attend career fairs and workshops they host, and make the most of any industry connections they offer. Don't forget to reach out to your professors—they often have valuable contacts in the tax advisory space.
✨Ace Those Informational Interviews
Set up casual chats with tax advisors or consultants working in the industry. This is your chance to ask them what they love about their work and the skills required. It shows you're genuinely interested and can often lead to insider tips or even direct referrals to roles like the one at Saffery Champness.
✨Look for Workshops and Training Events
Keep an eye on tax advisory workshops and training events—these are gold mines for networking and skill-building. Participating in these can help you get noticed and potentially put you ahead of the competition when applying for trainee roles at places like Saffery Champness.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Capital Allowances Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - September 2027
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In the tax advisory and consulting field, we love to see solid academic performance. Share your grades, relevant coursework, and any certifications you might have, like a tax qualification or accounting modules. These details help demonstrate that you’ve got the theoretical knowledge to back up your ambitions!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you’re just starting out, any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work related to finance or tax can set you apart. Make sure to include any practical experience you've gained, as it shows us you're already familiar with the field and how it operates!
Express Your Interest and Motivation:When writing your cover letter, be sure to convey why you’re excited about this trainee position at Saffery Champness. Share what drives you towards tax advisory and consulting. It’s all about showing us your passion and your potential to grow within this role!
Polish Up Your CV Format:In tax advisory, clarity and organisation are key! Make your CV easy to read with a clear structure and headings. We recommend having a skills section that highlights analytical skills and attention to detail. This is super important in our field, as we frequently deal with complex information that needs precision!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery Champness
✨Understand the Tax Landscape
Dive deep into the current tax regulations and trends that your potential clients might be facing. Knowing the intricacies of tax law, recent changes, or upcoming reforms will show Saffery Champness that you're passionate and informed, which is crucial for a trainee in tax advisory.
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to tackle some case study scenarios or hypothetical tax issues during the interview. Practising how to break down complex financial information and present clear solutions will help us demonstrate our analytical abilities, which is key in tax advisory consulting.
✨Emphasise Your Eagerness to Learn
As a trainee, the company is mainly interested in your potential rather than your experience. Highlight instances when you’ve quickly adapted to new information or processes in past academic or work settings - this will help illustrate your motivation and ability to grow in the role at Saffery Champness.
✨Be Prepared for Compliance Questions
Expect questions about tax compliance and different tax strategies. Having an understanding of how these can impact businesses will demonstrate your commitment to the field and readiness to contribute positively at Saffery Champness as you kick off your career.
