At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in auditing and financial analysis while working with diverse clients.
- Company: Join Saffery, a people-focused firm with a rich history and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, profit-sharing, flexible work, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Participate in social events and join our diverse People networks.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with mentorship and real-world learning in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree and strong A Level results; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
About The Programme
Our training contract takes three 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 for all trainees to complete the full ACA. We believe that studying alongside a cohort gives you the best chance of exam success.
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.
Key Dates To Apply
Monday 1 June 2026 – Sunday 7 June 2026
Your role and development
Your growth doesn’t just come from exams; it comes from valuable work experience and real‑world learning. You’ll be taken through the various stages of an audit from planning to completion. Work on audit and accounts preparation assignments for clients across diverse industries. Learn how to conduct client reviews, audit testing, and financial analysis. Visit client sites and build strong relationships to gain a deeper understanding of their business. Progressively take on more responsibility, enabling you to understand the full audit cycle.
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
- 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 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
- Financial support & flexibility
- Competitive salary
- 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; in the first few months we encourage up to four 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
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 including Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility and Women
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.
Graduate Audit Trainee (ACA) - High Wycombe - January 2027 employer: Saffery
Saffery is an excellent employer for aspiring auditors, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture in High Wycombe. With a strong focus on personal development, employees benefit from structured training, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in diverse projects across various industries. The firm promotes work-life balance through flexible arrangements and prioritises employee wellbeing, making it an ideal place for recent graduates and career changers to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Audit Trainee (ACA) - High Wycombe - January 2027
✨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 Graduate Audit Trainee (ACA) - High Wycombe - January 2027
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.
