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- 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.
Accounts Trainee (AAT/ACCA or ICAS) – Inverness – September 2026
5 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Your future starts here
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 AAT/ACCA or AAT/ICAS qualification.
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.
About The Programme
Our training contract takes at least 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 all trainees to complete the full ACCA or ICAS. We believe that 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. We hope this pause provides you with time to enjoy the holiday season or prepare for upcoming exams.
Your role and development
Your growth doesn’t just come from exams – it comes from 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 yearend 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.
The role would include (but is not limited to) the following, within agreed deadlines:
- 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 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, enthusiastic, and act 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. 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 AAT/ACCA or ICAS 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 & 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, 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 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.
When you work with Saffery, the well‑respected accountancy firm where heritage meets ambition, you work with people who know your name. Who know you as a human being, not just a job title. Everyone belongs here. Always.
Ready to start your journey?
Explore Life At Saffery & Apply Today
Life at Saffery
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
- 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 – EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com.
- If you require any reasonable adjustments, please let us know by including the details in the relevant section on the application form. 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.
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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.
