Audit & Business Services Trainee

DJH; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 18,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading accountancy firm is seeking an ABS Trainee for a summer 2026 start in Derby. The role involves assisting with account preparation, bookkeeping, and audits within a collaborative and innovative environment. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic learners with strong communication skills. Comprehensive benefits include personal development plans, hybrid working options, and health support packages.

Benefits

Personal development plans

Health & Wellbeing support

Christmas & New Year office closure

Charity events

Social events

Sports teams

Pension scheme

Flexitime

Company sick pay

Life insurance

Paid overtime or time off in lieu

Qualifications

• Strong communicator who thrives in a collaborative environment.
• Enthusiastic and willing to learn.
• Conscientious with a sharp eye for detail.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation of accounts & financial statements.
• Perform bookkeeping and prepare management accounts.
• Participate in the audit of financial statements.

Skills

Collaborative environment

Communication

Enthusiasm

Proactivity

Time management

Attention to detail

Team player

Job description

Overview

Application Deadline: 2 January 2026

Department: Early Careers

Employment Type: Apprentice

Location: Derby

Ashgates became part of the DJH group earlier this year, becoming our first office in the East Midlands. They are a progressive, proactive, and friendly accountancy and advisory practice with over 80 people based at Pride Park, Derby. Established in 1991, the firm has grown incredibly over the years which has helped attract a talented team. They can provide a broad range of support and advice to businesses and individuals, on a local, national, and overseas level. Our recent merger with them gives us a platform to continue our growth into the future, whilst maximising the opportunities for our team. You can find out more about the partnership on our website.

Let’s talk about the role...

It’s a great opportunity to develop and progress within a forward-thinking and fast-paced firm. You\'ll:

• Assist with the preparation of accounts & financial statements, completing necessary schedules. Work to be reviewed by seniors / managers as appropriate
• Assist with regular bookkeeping for clients along with the preparation of management accounts and VAT returns
• Assist with the audit of financial statements as part of a team, undertaking allocated tasks and sections as per our training program
• Be involved with planning work for relevant work assignments
• Meet budgets and individual utilisation targets

Let’s talk about you and your skills…

Hungry for a new challenge, you’ll:

• Thrive in a collaborative and progressive environment
• Love getting to know people and be a fantastic communicator
• Be enthusiastic and willing to learn
• Be proactive and personable approach to work
• Possess great time management
• Be conscientious with a sharp eye for detail
• Be a team player

Lets talk benefits...

Looking after our team is our top priority, so what’s on offer for you?

• Personal development plans
• Health & Wellbeing support packages
• Christmas & New Year office closure
• Charity events
• Social events
• Sports teams
• Pension scheme
• Hybrid working
• Flexitime from 7:30am to 5:30pm
• Company sick pay & Life insurance
• Paid overtime or time off in lieu

If this ABS Trainee position is of interest and you’re looking for an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking and innovative firm, apply now!

Please note: this role is for a summer 2026 start