School Leaver Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA)
Saffery
Location
Peterborough
Salary
Competitive
Duration
4.5 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), GCSE Maths and English Language grade 6 (or B), or equivalent qualifications
Disability Confident
✓ Yes
About the role
Join Saffery as a 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 to support reporting and analysis, use specialist software and systems, carry out technical research, prepare reports and documentation, and 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 (excluding General Studies and AS Levels), or equivalent. Minimum grade 6 (or B) in GCSE or National 5 Maths and English Language or equivalent. AAT qualified candidates welcome. No prior relevant work experience expected.
Skills
Tax complianceFinancial analysisTechnical researchClient communicationReport preparationTeamworkDecision-makingLeadershipAttention to detailTime management
Required qualifications
Essential
A Level or Scottish Higher · Any · Grade Equivalent to 120 UCAS points from top 3
Essential
GCSE or National 5 · Maths · Grade 6 or B
Essential
GCSE or National 5 · English Language · Grade 6 or B
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 including a six-week business simulation designed to build key professional skills such as teamwork, decision-making and leadership. Full ACA/CTA syllabus completion required unless AAT Level 4 qualified (eligible for exemptions). Studying alongside a cohort for best chance of exam success.
Additional training
Support through mentorship, structured training, off-site trainee programmes and regular social events. Buddy scheme and/or line manager support. Participation in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion programme and opportunity to volunteer in People networks.
Future prospects
ACA/CTA joint qualification. Development as a trusted advisor in corporate tax with expertise in tax compliance, reporting, tax planning, and practical application of professional knowledge across varied sectors.
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, health assessments and GP access, cancer screenings, mental health and wellbeing resources, mentorship and career progression opportunities, participation in ED&I programme and People networks.
Things to consider
Early applications encouraged as roles may close early. First few months require up to 4 days in office to benefit from training around managers and colleagues. Agile working policy allows up to 3 days working from home after initial period. No annual leave recommended around expected start date to avoid missing important training and onboarding sessions. Reasonable adjustments available upon request.
About Saffery
Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers operating since 1855. They build 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 local insight on a global scale. Known for informal and inclusive culture where people can be themselves.
Website
www.saffery.comContact email
EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com