School Leaver Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA or ATT/CTA)
Saffery
Location
London
Salary
Competitive
Duration
3 years
Positions available
1
Degree awarded
Level 7
Start date
1 January 2027
Application deadline
4 October 2026
Minimum grades
120 UCAS points from top 3 A Levels (excluding General Studies and AS Levels), GCSE Maths and English Language grade 6 (or B)
About the role
Join Saffery as a Tax Trainee studying towards ACA/CTA or ATT/CTA qualifications. You'll work within either Corporate Tax or Employment Tax teams, assisting with tax returns, computations, compliance filings, and client advisory work. The role combines professional study with on-the-job learning across a structured three-year training contract.
Requirements
Minimum 120 UCAS points from top 3 A Levels (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels. Minimum grade 6 (or B) in GCSE Maths and English Language (or equivalent). AAT Level 4 qualification welcomed for potential exemptions.
Skills
Tax complianceFinancial analysisClient communicationTechnical researchProblem-solvingTeamworkAttention to detailTime management
Required qualifications
Essential
A Level · Any · Grade 120 UCAS points across top 3
Essential
GCSE · Maths · Grade 6
Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 6
Desired
AAT · Any · Grade Level 4
Training & development
Three-year structured training contract with full support and access to first-class tuition centres. Bespoke School Leaver Programme developed with Kaplan including six-week business simulation covering teamwork, decision-making and leadership. Professional study combined with on-the-job learning across audit engagements and complex work areas. Mentorship, structured training, off-site trainee programmes and regular social events.
Company benefits
Competitive salary, profit-sharing scheme (approx. £1,000 per year), generous annual leave, flexible work arrangements, contributory pension plan (5% salary match), buddy scheme/line manager support, agile working policy (up to 3 days from home), health assessments and GP access, cancer screenings, mental health and wellbeing resources, mentorship and career progression opportunities, ED&I programme participation, volunteering opportunities with People networks (Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility, Gender Equality).
Things to consider
Candidates should familiarise themselves with the recruitment process before applying. Psychometric test practice and competency-based interview preparation recommended. In first few months, up to 4 days in office encouraged despite flexible working policy. Travel expenses reimbursed for in-person interviews.
About Saffery
Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers established since 1855. They build long-term relationships with diverse, high-profile clients across varied and specialised sectors. As a member of Nexia, a worldwide network of trusted firms, they provide local insight on a global scale. Known for informal and inclusive culture.
Contact email
EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com
If this one works out
This role is in London. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £900–£1,400 a month.