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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare management accounts, advise clients, and maintain relationships while gaining valuable experience.
- Company: Join Saffery, a people-focused firm with a rich history and diverse client base.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, paid overtime, generous leave, and health resources.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in accounting with mentorship and exposure to high-profile clients.
- Qualifications: 120 UCAS points and strong GCSEs in Maths and English required.
- Other info: Experience a friendly, inclusive culture with excellent career progression opportunities.
School Leaver Accounts Trainee (AAT/ACCA or ICAS) – Inverness – September 2026
Overview
We are seeking ambitious individuals from all backgrounds to join our team as a trainee, studying towards the AAT/ACCA or ICAS qualification. The 4.5-year training contract (AAT-ACCA) or 4-year contract (ICAS) provides full support and access to tuition centres. Exemptions may apply for AAT Level 4 qualified candidates; otherwise all trainees complete the full AAT/ACCA or ICAS pathway.
Responsibilities
- Preparing management accounts, including reconciling key account balances and tailoring presentation to each client
- Advising clients on accounting systems and software migrations
- Agreeing and executing payment runs for clients using various 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 client relationships and taking ownership of projects and tasks
- Processing work on Xero and other accounting software
What You’ll Need
- A minimum of 120 UCAS points from 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 AAT qualified candidates. If you have over 12 months of relevant experience within a training contract at another firm, consider our Experienced Hire opportunities.
Role Development and Work Environment
You’ll work in a friendly and progressive, client-facing, fast-paced role with advisory elements and exposure to high-profile clients. The work ranges from year-end compliance to ad hoc advisory and project work for a client base including sole traders, partnerships, limited companies, LLPs, trusts, and smaller private charities. You’ll receive mentorship, structured training, and off-site trainee programmes, plus regular social events.
What We’ll Offer You
- Financial support & flexibility: Competitive salary, paid overtime or time off in lieu, profit-sharing (~£1,000/year), generous annual leave, and contributory pension (5% match)
- Work-life balance & wellbeing: Buddy/line manager support, agile working policy (up to 3 days WFH; up to 4 days in the office during training), health assessments, GP access, and mental health resources
- Personal development and belonging: Mentorship, career progression opportunities, ED&I programme, and options to join People networks
Who We Are
Saffery is a partner-led, people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, we’ve built long-term relationships with diverse, high-profile clients across varied sectors. We are a Nexia member, offering local insight with global reach, and we pride ourselves on an informal, inclusive culture where people can be themselves and enjoy challenging, rewarding careers.
What To Know Before You Apply
- Familiarise yourself with our recruitment process by visiting How to apply – Saffery
- Practice psychometric tests and learn about the interview process to feel prepared
- You may apply to one programme per recruitment season; if unsuccessful, you can reapply when applications reopen
- If extenuating circumstances affected academic performance, contact EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com before applying
- Include details of reasonable adjustments you may require on the application form
- Travel expenses for shortlisted in-person interviews are reimbursed
- If offered a place, avoid booking annual leave around the start date to ensure onboarding success
Seniority level
- Internship
Employment type
- Contract
Job function
- Education and Training
Industries
- Accounting
Ready to start your journey? Explore Life At Saffery & Apply Today.
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School Leaver Accounts Trainee (AAT/ACCA or ICAS) - Inverness - September 2026 employer: Saffery
Contact Detail:
Saffery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Leaver Accounts Trainee (AAT/ACCA or ICAS) - Inverness - September 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Saffery, their values, and what they stand for. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend any open days or events they host. Building relationships can give you insider info and might just land you a recommendation when it comes time to apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to accounting and your motivations for joining Saffery. Mock interviews with friends or family can help you feel more confident and articulate your thoughts clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about wanting to join the Saffery family!
We think you need these skills to ace School Leaver Accounts Trainee (AAT/ACCA or ICAS) - Inverness - September 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to explore our website and get familiar with who we are. Understanding our culture and values will help you tailor your application to show how you fit in with our team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the School Leaver Accounts Trainee role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Check Your Details: Before hitting that submit button, double-check all your details. Make sure your contact information is correct and that there are no typos in your application. A polished application shows us that you pay attention to detail, which is crucial in accounting!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting basics, especially around management accounts and VAT returns. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the key responsibilities.
✨Research the Company
Take some time to learn about Saffery and their culture. Understanding their values and client base will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and gives you a chance to find out more about the training and mentorship opportunities they offer.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family. Practising common interview questions can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and reduce any nerves on the day.
