Accounts Apprentice Trainee - Level 4 and 7

Pantalent; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed Top 50 accountancy firm is seeking candidates for AAT and ICAEW trainee programmes, commencing in late summer 2025. The programmes include comprehensive study support for aspiring accountants, with a focus on professionalism and skills development. With mentorship and a collaborative culture, this opportunity paves the way for a successful accounting career.

Benefits

20 days holiday plus Bank Holidays

Full study support and paid time off for exams

Auto-enrollment pension scheme

Professional membership support

Dress for your Diary Policy

Qualifications

• Non-graduates for AAT need A levels or equivalent vocational qualifications.
• ICAEW requires a minimum 2:1 degree.

Responsibilities

• Trainees will gain foundational accounting knowledge and business experience.
• AAT offers a progression path; ICAEW covers modules for chartered qualification.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Initiative

Analytical Ability

IT/Microsoft Office Proficiency

Written Communication

Verbal Communication

Education

At least 2 A levels at Grade C or above

Minimum 2:1 degree for ICAEW

Job description

Affinia is a leading UK Top 50 Accountancy firm that has experienced significant growth through acquisitions and organic development over the past 18 months. In October, we launched our new brand, www.affinia.co.uk, uniting six firms across the East & South East of England into a single challenger firm in accounting, tax, and business advisory services.

With over 300 years of combined heritage, more than 400 professionals work across locations including Stratford, Colchester, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Halstead, Harlow, Orpington, Sidcup, and Sutton. Our services span business, government, public sector organizations, and individuals, covering seven main practice groups: Accountancy & Advisory, Tax and Planning, Audit Services, Corporate Finance, Digital Solutions, Payroll, and Financial Planning.

We invest heavily in technology and industry knowledge, growing through strategic acquisitions and private investment. Our commitment is to provide exceptional client service, leveraging sector expertise to develop strategies that help clients achieve their goals. We stay abreast of industry trends to offer the best advice for short, medium, and long-term success.

Purpose of the Role

Are you seeking a rewarding and challenging career in one of the UK’s most respected Top 50 Accountancy practices? Affinia is now accepting applications for our AAT and ICAEW trainee programmes starting in late summer 2025. We offer a comprehensive study support package covering tuition and Institute fees, paid study leave, and mentoring support.

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT)

This apprenticeship provides foundational knowledge in bookkeeping, accounting, budget management, financial performance evaluation, and tax. It offers a clear progression path within the profession.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)

This programme allows you to work across sectors and progress toward becoming a chartered accountant. It covers the first six modules of the ACA qualification and is recognized globally. You will be paid while studying for the ICAEW CFAB and gaining valuable business experience.

At Affinia, our trainees benefit from experienced mentors and a collaborative culture that supports professional growth. We are committed to equipping you with the skills needed for a successful accounting career.

Skills/Qualifications

For the AAT programme, applicants should be non-graduates with:

• At least 2 A levels at Grade C or above (including Maths or related subject), or equivalent vocational qualifications. Applications are assessed individually if qualifications differ. If you lack A level Maths, a minimum Grade 6/Grade B in GCSE Maths is required.

For the ICAEW (ACA) programme, a minimum 2:1 degree is expected.

Key attributes include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, teamwork, initiative, diligence, flexibility, resilience, enthusiasm, analytical ability, proficiency in IT/Microsoft Office, and professional communication skills both written and verbal. Some travel may be required.

Please note: We do not sponsor visas or consider applicants on a Graduate Visa for trainee roles.

Core Benefits

Our culture emphasizes ambition and community impact. We support our colleagues’ development and wellbeing through flexible, inclusive working environments and benefits such as:

• 20 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Full study support and paid time off for exams
• Auto-enrollment pension scheme
• Professional membership support
• Dress for your Diary Policy

Affinia is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not tolerate discrimination based on age, disability, sex, race, religion, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, or sexual orientation. We value diverse talent and base hiring decisions on merit.