School Leaver Audit Trainee (ACA) September 2027

Are you looking to start your career in Audit, helping businesses build confidence in their financial reporting and decision-making? We’re seeking ambitious individuals from all backgrounds to join our team as a trainee, studying towards the ACA qualification. Who we are Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, we’ve built long-term relationships with our diverse, high-profile clients, across varied and specialised sectors. As a proud member of Nexia, a worldwide network of trusted member firms, we’ve got access to local insight on a global scale. We pride ourselves on our informal and inclusive culture, building an environment where people can be themselves and enjoy challenging, interesting, rewarding careers. When you work with Saffery, the well-respected accountancy firm where heritage meets ambition, you work with people who know your name. Who know you as a human being, not just a job title. Everyone belongs here. Always. Who we welcome We recognise that talent comes from different paths, so we encourage applications from upcoming and recent school leavers or career changers. We do not expect applicants to have any prior relevant work experience. Ready to start your journey? About the programme Our training contract takes four years to complete with full support and access to first-class tuition centres. You’ll follow a structured development programme combining professional study with on-the-job learning. As your knowledge and confidence grow, you’ll take on more responsibility within audit engagements, contribute to more complex areas of work and build your confidence working directly with clients. Our 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. Kaplan has successfully delivered this programme for several years and it has consistently received excellent feedback from participants. If you’re AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions, otherwise we ask for all trainees to complete the full ACA syllabus. We believe that studying alongside a cohort gives you the best chance of exam success. Key dates to apply Monday 14 September 2026 - Sunday 4 October 2026 We encourage early applications to avoid disappointment, as roles may close early due to high demand. Due to the volume of applications, you may occasionally experience delays; however, we remain committed to reviewing all applications fairly. All applications are assessed by trained human reviewers, and automated tools are not used to make final decisions. Your role and development Your growth doesn't just come from exams. It comes from valuable work experience and real-world learning. Within our London office, you'll work across one of three main client groups; Corporates Group, Film, TV and Video Games Group or Private Client Group. You can learn more about each client group below. If you have a preference for a particular client group, please tell us in the 'About You' section of your application form. We encourage you to research our teams and the clients they work with, as this will help you explain why that area interests you and how it aligns with your career goals. Corporates Group The Corporates Group works with a diverse range of clients across multiple sectors, including professional services, financial services, manufacturing, technology, retail, recruitment, hospitality, property, charities and education. Clients range from entrepreneurial and family-owned businesses to large UK listed and international groups, as well as charities and not-for-profit organisations. The team provides a broad range of audit, tax, compliance and advisory services, supporting businesses at all stages of their growth and development. Film, TV and Video Games Group The Film, TV & Video Games team works with a diverse range of clients across the creative industries, including film and television production companies, video game developers, major studios, streaming platforms and specialist service providers. Clients range from owner-managed businesses and independent producers to large multinational organisations. The team provides audit, tax and advisory services, supporting clients operating in a dynamic and fast-evolving sector. Private Client Group The Private Client group supports a diverse range of clients, from individuals and families to business owners and high-net-worth entrepreneurs. Teams work closely with clients to understand their goals and provide advice across personal, business and financial matters. By building long-term relationships and collaborating with specialists across Saffery, the group helps clients make informed decisions, plan for the future and achieve their ambitions with confidence. What you’ll do You'll be taken through the various stages of an audit from planning to completion Support audit engagem