At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in financial activities and gain hands-on experience in accounting.
- Company: Join a well-established firm with a supportive and professional culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, tuition support, paid study days, and employee benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for growth and social events.
- Why this job: Kickstart your accounting career while studying for professional qualifications.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm, strong work ethic, and communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 £ per year.
We are looking to recruit an Apprentice Accountant to work at our March office. Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Ltd is a well-established firm of accountants based in Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, with offices in King’s Lynn, Fakenham, Gorleston, Acle, Wisbech, March and Downham Market. We have more than 140 dedicated staff spread across the organisation. Our teams include highly qualified individuals who provide a professional and supportive service to our clients, helping them understand their tax and finances. The relationship that our teams have with their clients and communities is integral to the reputation and success of the firm. Enthusiasm, determination and a strong work ethic are major attributes that we look for when introducing someone new into our team.
By joining us as a Trainee Accountant, you will be able to study for your professional qualifications whilst working as part of a team for clients such as groups, companies and sole traders, as well as gaining auditing experience. We will fully support your tuition fees and institute fees to study towards the appropriate professional qualification, provide paid time off for study days, and you will receive support from your dedicated line manager. We welcome applications from school leavers looking to begin their AAT journey, and as such, please include your exam results on your CV or as part of a covering message with your application. The start date for this role is Summer 2026.
Part of your role will involve assisting in the day-to-day financial activities, which will include but are not limited to preparation of year-end financial accounts and tax returns, monthly or quarterly VAT returns, management accounts and other data entry support for clients.
Responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with financial and management accounts preparation for Sole Traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies
- Assisting with managing client expectations and deadlines
- Assisting with the preparation of personal and business tax returns
- Carrying out bookkeeping activities including journal postings and ledger reconciliations
- Processing client records accurately using Xero, QuickBooks and other accountancy software
- Preparation of VAT returns and management accounts
- Assisting with general administrative duties including meeting and greeting clients, filing, answering the telephone and supporting the team to meet deadlines as required
Skills you will need to demonstrate:
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Organisational and time management skills
- Attention to detail and confidentiality
- Ability to work effectively on your own and as part of a team
- Motivation and initiative
- Integrity and trustworthiness
Package:
- Excellent salary whilst you’re learning. We never pay apprentice rates
- Salary sacrifice available for pension contributions
- Life Assurance
- Enhanced Sick Pay after qualifying period
- Employee Benefits Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Free car parking
- Length of service recognition
- Company social events paid for or subsidised by the firm
How to Apply:
Direct applications only via Indeed or to careers@stephenson-smart.com
Trainee Accountant (Apprenticeship) in March employer: Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited
Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Ltd is an excellent employer for aspiring accountants, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and community engagement. With comprehensive tuition support for your AAT qualifications, paid study days, and a range of employee benefits including life assurance and enhanced sick pay, you will thrive in a collaborative environment that values enthusiasm and integrity. Join us in our March office to kickstart your career in accountancy with a firm that truly invests in your future.
Contact Details:
Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Accountant (Apprenticeship) in March
✨Get Involved with Campus Recruitment Events
Apprenticeships in banking and financial services often come through campus recruitment days. Keep an eye out for events hosted by your university or local banks, as these can be golden opportunities for us to meet recruiters face-to-face and make a great first impression.
✨Engage with Professional Bodies
Join organisations like the Institute of Chartered Accountants or the Chartered Institute of Banking. These memberships can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities, plus, they often have dedicated sections for apprenticeships and early-career roles that can point us in the right direction.
✨Follow the Right Companies on Social Media
Banks and financial services firms love to share their stories on social media! Follow companies like Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited to keep up with their latest apprenticeship opportunities and insider news. Engaging with their posts could give us an edge when it comes to the application.
✨Utilise Your University’s Career Service
Your university's career service is a treasure trove of information for apprenticeships in banking. They often have connections to employers like Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited, so don't hesitate to tap into their resources and advice!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Accountant (Apprenticeship) in March
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Maths Skills:In the banking and financial services sector, being good with numbers is a must! Make sure to highlight any relevant maths qualifications or experience in your application, as well as any projects or coursework that demonstrate your analytical skills.
Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn:As this is an apprenticeship, companies like Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited want to see your enthusiasm for the industry and your eagerness to learn. In your cover letter, chat about why you’re interested in banking and any specific areas you’re excited to explore. Show them that you’re ready to soak up knowledge like a sponge!
Highlight Relevant Experience (Even If It's Limited):Whether it's a part-time job, volunteer experience, or even a school project, mention any relevant experience related to banking or finance. This could include customer service roles or any projects where you handled budgeting. We’re all about showing how you can apply your skills, even if they’re from unconventional backgrounds.
Tailor Your CV for Impact:Make sure your CV isn’t just a list of duties. Tailor it to reflect skills that appeal to financial services, like attention to detail and communication skills. Don’t forget to keep it clear and concise, showing how you’re a perfect fit for the apprenticeship at Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited
✨Brush Up on Financial Principles
Since you're diving into the banking and financial sector with an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with key concepts like interest rates, investment strategies, and basic financial accounting. Make sure you can share your understanding of these principles during the interview, as they'll likely pop up in practical scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
In the world of banking, interviewers love to throw real-world scenarios at you. Prepare for questions that ask how you'd handle customer inquiries or solve financial challenges. Practising these types of situational responses can really showcase your problem-solving skills and customer service abilities, both of which are essential in this field.
✨Show Your Eagerness to Learn
As an apprenticeship candidate, what's going to set you apart is your motivation to learn and grow in the role. Be sure to express your excitement about entering the banking world and highlight any steps you've already taken to educate yourself, whether through courses, workshops, or relevant hobbies.
✨Prepare Your Questions About Company Culture
When interviewing with Stephenson Smart (East Anglia) Limited, don’t shy away from asking about their company culture and training programmes for apprentices. This shows that you're not only focused on the role but also interested in how you'll fit within the team, which is a major factor for your future success in the apprenticeship.
