At a Glance
- Tasks: Kickstart your audit career with hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Company: Join Saffery, a people-focused firm with a rich history since 1855.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible work, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team that values your unique contributions.
- Why this job: Gain valuable skills while studying for ACA qualifications in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 120 UCAS points and strong GCSEs in Maths and English required.
Your future starts here. Are you looking to start your career in audit? We’re seeking ambitious individuals from all backgrounds to join our team as a trainee, studying towards the ACA qualifications.
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 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 for all trainees to complete the full ACA. We believe that studying alongside a cohort gives you the best chance of exam success.
Key Dates To Apply
21 July 2026 - 2 August 2026. We encourage early applications to avoid disappointment. Due to high volume, you may experience delays in the process, but we will review all submissions fairly.
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
- 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 apply as usual and be sure to include your qualification details in the academic section. If however, 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.
Where potential meets personal meets you
At Saffery, we look for people who share our values - those who are collaborative, responsible, progressive and act with integrity whilst always striving for excellence. You’ll be approachable and committed, ready to take ownership and go the extra mile to deliver our signature service. You won’t hesitate to speak up when something could be better and you’ll help to make it happen. We value drive, focus, and a positive attitude. Here, you’re never just a number. You’re valued for who you are. We want your personality and style to shine because we believe in caring more and letting egos take a back seat. We work hard, we support each other, and we enjoy the journey together. You’ll thrive in a close‑knit team that takes pride in delivering high quality work. There’s real mutual respect here and a two‑way relationship where we bring out the best in each other. We’ll help you get to know our clients, but it’s even better if you’re already curious about the broader economic landscape they operate in. Do your research. Ask questions. Be inquisitive. We know the ACA exams are demanding, and we’ll be right there to support you every step of the way. Your commitment will play a big part in our continued success. You’ll be surrounded by people who value you, your contributions, and your potential. 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
We believe that supporting our people leads to success, so we provide both core and flexible benefits tailored to your needs:
- 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, 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
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 for example 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.
School Leaver Audit Trainee (ACA) - Peterborough - January 2027 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.
