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School Leaver Accounts Trainee (ACA) - Bournemouth - September 2027

Saffery
Location
Bournemouth
Salary
Competitive
Duration
4 years
Positions available
1
Degree awarded
Level 7
Start date
1 September 2027
Application deadline
4 October 2026
Minimum grades
120 UCAS points from top 3 A Levels or Highers (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels; GCSE or National 5 Maths and English Language grade 6 (or B) or equivalent
Disability Confident
✓ Yes

About the role

Join Saffery as a School Leaver Accounts Trainee studying towards the ACA qualification. You will assist with preparing financial statements, management accounts and related analysis, work with client financial data using accounting systems, assist with resolving accounting queries, and prepare high-quality work for review by senior team members. The role combines professional study with on-the-job learning in a structured development programme.

Requirements

A minimum of 120 UCAS points from top 3 A Levels or Highers (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels. A minimum of 6 (or B) in GCSE or National 5 Maths and English Language (or equivalent). AAT qualified candidates are welcomed. No prior relevant work experience required.

Skills

Financial statement preparationData analysisAccounting systems proficiencyProblem-solvingTeamworkDecision-makingLeadershipAttention to detailTime managementCommunication

Required qualifications

Essential
A Level · Any · Grade 120 UCAS points from top 3
Essential
GCSE · Maths · Grade 6
Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 6
Desired
AAT · Accounting · Grade Level 4

Training & development

Four-year training contract with full support and access to first-class tuition centres. Structured development programme combining professional study with on-the-job learning. Bespoke School Leaver Programme developed with Kaplan includes a six-week business simulation designed to build key professional skills such as teamwork, decision-making and leadership. Study towards ACA qualification with a cohort for best chance of exam success. If AAT Level 4 qualified, eligible for exemptions; otherwise full ACA syllabus required.
Additional training
Mentorship and structured training provided. Off-site trainee programmes and regular social events to build friendships with colleagues. Support through buddy scheme and/or line manager support.
Future prospects
Upon completion, you will be a qualified ACA (Association of Chartered Accountants) member with expertise in core accounting principles, financial reporting standards, regulatory requirements, business operations, and the ability to interpret financial data and communicate insights.

Company benefits

Competitive salary, profit-sharing scheme (approx. £1,000 per year), generous annual leave and flexible work arrangements, contributory pension plan (5% salary match), buddy scheme and/or line manager support, agile working policy (up to three days working from home, up to 4 days in office during first few months), health assessments, GP access, cancer screenings, access to mental health and wellbeing resources, mentorship and career progression opportunities, participation in ED&I programme, volunteer opportunities in People networks (Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility, Gender Equality). Travel expense reimbursement provided for in-person interviews.

About Saffery

Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, the firm has built long-term relationships with diverse, high-profile clients across varied and specialised sectors. A proud member of Nexia, a worldwide network of trusted member firms, providing access to local insight on a global scale. Known for an informal and inclusive culture where people can be themselves and enjoy challenging, interesting, rewarding careers.
Website
www.saffery.com