School Leaver Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - Manchester - September 2027
Saffery
Location
Manchester
Salary
Competitive
Duration
4.5 years
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); GCSE/National 5 Maths and English Language grade 6 (or B) or equivalent
About the role
Join Saffery as a School Leaver Corporate Tax Trainee, studying towards the ACA/CTA joint qualification. You'll assist with tax returns, computations and compliance filings for a range of clients, work with financial and client data, use specialist software, carry out technical research, and prepare reports and documentation. You'll build relationships with clients and colleagues while gaining exposure to various industries and sectors.
Requirements
Minimum of 120 UCAS points from top 3 A Levels or Highers (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels. Minimum of 6 (or B) in GCSE or National 5 Maths and English Language (or equivalent). AAT qualification welcome. No prior relevant work experience required. Must be collaborative, responsible, progressive, acting with integrity. Approachable, committed, proactive, curious, organised, detail-oriented, able to manage time effectively, willing to learn and ask questions.
Skills
Tax complianceFinancial analysisTechnical researchClient relationship managementReport writingTeamworkDecision-makingLeadershipAttention to detailCommunication
Required qualifications
Essential
A Level · Any · Grade 120 UCAS points
Essential
GCSE · Maths · Grade 6
Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 6
Desired
AAT · Any · Grade Level 4
Training & development
Four and a half 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. If AAT Level 4 qualified, eligible for exemptions; otherwise complete full ACA/CTA syllabus. Study alongside a cohort for best chance of exam success.
Future prospects
Develop expertise as a trusted advisor in corporate tax. Learn core tax principles, legislation and regulatory requirements. Understand how tax rules apply to different clients and business situations. Master analysis of financial information and preparation of tax returns, calculations and technical documentation. Gain knowledge of tax's role in compliance, advisory work and business decision-making. Learn to communicate technical information effectively. Understand corporate tax compliance, reporting and tax planning opportunities.
Company benefits
Competitive salary; Profit-sharing scheme (approximately £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 encouraged in first few months); Health assessments, GP access, and cancer screenings; Access to mental health and wellbeing resources; Mentorship and career progression opportunities; Participation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion programme; Volunteer opportunities with People networks (Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility, Gender Equality); Travel expense reimbursement for interviews
Things to consider
Applications accepted Monday 14 September 2026 to Sunday 4 October 2026. Early applications encouraged as roles may close early due to high demand. All applications reviewed by trained human reviewers; automated tools not used for final decisions. If unsuccessful, encouraged to reapply next September. Candidates with extenuating circumstances should contact EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com before submitting. Reasonable adjustments available upon request. Hold off booking annual leave around expected start date to ensure participation in important training and onboarding sessions. Can apply to only one programme per recruitment season.
About Saffery
Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, they have 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 informal and inclusive culture with emphasis on people knowing each other as human beings, not just job titles.
If this one works out
This role is in Manchester. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £550–£800 a month.