At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare management accounts, assist clients, and work on diverse accounting projects.
- Company: Join Saffery, a supportive and people-focused firm of chartered accountants.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible work, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Mentorship, career progression, and social events to build connections.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with ACCA training and real-world experience.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree and minimum 120 UCAS points required; AAT qualified candidates welcome.
Accounts Trainee (ACCA) – Peterborough – September 2026
Saffery, Peterborough, England, United Kingdom
Overview
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 ACCA qualification.
Who We Welcome
We recognise that talent comes from different paths, so we encourage applications from recent school leavers or career changers. We do not expect applicants to have any prior relevant work experience.
About the Programme
Our training contract takes four years to complete with full support and access to first‑class tuition centres. If you are AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions; otherwise we ask all trainees to complete the full ACCA. Studying alongside a cohort gives you the best chance of exam success.
Key Dates to Apply
19 December 2025 – 11 January 2026
Please note that the next stage of our recruitment process (psychometric testing) will be paused from 19 December 2025 until 11 January 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted during this period, and candidates may then be invited to complete a psychometric test in mid‑January 2026.
Your Role and Development
Your growth comes from exams, 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
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 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).
We welcome applications from candidates who are AAT qualified. Please include your qualification details in the academic section of your application. 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.
Culture
At Saffery we look for people who share our values: collaborative, enthusiastic, acting with integrity while always striving for excellence. You’ll be approachable and committed, ready to take ownership and go the extra mile to deliver our signature service.
What We’ll Offer You
Financial support & flexibility
- Competitive salary & paid overtime or time off in lieu
- 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, with up to four days in the office during first months)
- Health assessments, GP access, & cancer screenings
- Access to mental health & wellbeing resources
Personal development and belonging
- Mentorship & career progression opportunities
- Participation in our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) programme
- Volunteer to join one of our People networks (Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility and Women)
About Saffery
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, we have 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, rewarding careers.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Explore Life At Saffery & Apply Today.
Seniority Level
Internship
Employment Type
Full‑time
Job Function
Other
Industries
Accounting
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Accounts Trainee (ACCA) - Peterborough - September 2026 employer: Saffery
Saffery is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a flexible working week, generous leave policy, and comprehensive health benefits, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful compliance efforts in the financial sector. The London location provides unique networking opportunities and exposure to a diverse client base, making it an ideal place for those looking to advance their careers in financial crime compliance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Trainee (ACCA) - Peterborough - September 2026
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're a student or recent grad eyeing a trainee role in banking or financial services, your university career services are your secret weapon. They often have connections with firms, and can guide you to exclusive openings that aren't advertised widely, so make sure to get in touch!
✨Get Involved in Finance Societies
Joining finance-related societies or clubs at your university can seriously up your game. They often host networking events, guest speaker sessions, and workshops that can connect you directly with industry professionals and potential employers.
✨Show Your Passion Through Projects
Try working on finance-related projects or internships, even if they're unpaid. It shows your commitment and gives you something to discuss in interviews. Plus, if you've got a blog or a portfolio detailing your findings on market trends, that can really impress recruiters!
✨Use Our Website to Find Opportunities
We at StudySmarter recommend that you regularly check our website for trainee opportunities at leading companies like Saffery. They often post openings directly there, so don't miss out on the chance to apply and show what you've got!
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Trainee (ACCA) - Peterborough - September 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show your numbers!:In banking and financial services, we love a bit of quantification. Be sure to highlight any relevant coursework, grades, or projects that showcase your analytical skills. If you've tackled math-heavy subjects or have experience with financial modelling, let that shine on your CV!
Tailor your application to finance:Don't just copy and paste a generic cover letter; weave in your passion for finance and share any relevant experiences or internships, no matter how small. Writing about your motivations and learning potential in relation to the role will help us see you fit in at Saffery.
Certifications can set you apart:If you've got any finance-related certifications (think CFA Level 1, ACCA, or even online courses), make sure to include them! They show initiative and a commitment to your career in banking, which we really appreciate.
Proofread with a fine-tooth comb:In finance, attention to detail is crucial! Spam your application with typos or poor formatting, and we may flag you as 'not detail-oriented'. So, let’s double-check everything. A clear structure in your CV and cover letter will also help your application stand out. Remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery
✨Brush Up on Your Financial Knowledge
Make sure you’re comfortable with financial concepts and terminology. The interview may dive into areas like risk assessment or investment strategies, so revisiting some core principles and current trends in the banking sector will really help us stand out at Saffery.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to encounter case studies or hypothetical financial scenarios where you’ll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Practising with examples can help us articulate our thought process clearly and show how we approach problem-solving specific to the banking and financial services sector.
✨Highlight Your Learning Agility
As a trainee, they’re looking for potential over experience. We should emphasise our willingness to learn and adapt. Be ready to discuss how we’ve taken on challenges in the past, showcasing our growth mindset and eagerness to dive into the banking world with both feet.
✨Showcase Your Interest in the Industry
Let your passion for banking shine through! Discuss any relevant coursework, internships, or even personal finance projects you’ve explored. This not only demonstrates our knowledge but also our genuine enthusiasm for a career in banking at Saffery.
