Audit School/College Leaver, Reading, September 2027

Cooper Parry; Reading; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work

Generous holiday

Relaxed dress code

Wellbeing programme

Volunteering opportunities

Social & sports clubs

Job summary

Cooper Parry in Reading is looking for an Audit Trainee to start a career in a firm that does things differently. You’ll deliver statutory audits for a varied client base and begin ACA qualification with supported learning from day one.

The role begins September 2027, with assessment centres on 2 December and 17 March, and a culture that values curiosity, teamwork, and development through approachable mentors.

Qualifications

• Completed degree and at least 3 A Levels at BBC, including a numerical or business-related subject.
• School Leavers: same A Level requirements.
• ACA Chartered Accountant qualification pursued through a mix of college courses and on-the-job learning.

Responsibilities

• Reviewing and documenting client information such as invoices, bank statements and payroll reports.
• Assessing accuracy and reliability of financial data.
• Attending client year-end stocktakes (potentially on weekends).
• Communicating with client finance teams to understand systems and processes.
• Assisting in preparing financial statements using audit software.
• Working in small teams to perform financial testing and contribute to audit reports.
• Supporting deadlines and delivering high-quality work.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Multitasking

Organised

Audit enthusiasm

Education

University degree

3 A Levels BBC incl numerical/business subject

Job description

About The Role...

Ready to kick-start your Audit career and join a firm that does things differently? If you're naturally curious, always asking why, and keen to understand how businesses really work, you're in the right place.

Whether you're finishing up your A Levels, wrapping up your Degree, or taken time out to figure out what matters to you, we've built a pathway that supports your growth and helps you become a qualified accountant - without losing yourself along the way.

Our Audit teams are based across the UK however this role is for our Reading office. As an Audit Trainee, you'll be part of a tight-knit crew delivering statutory audits for a seriously varied mix of clients. You'll get hands-on experience from day one, build skills that matter, and contribute to work that makes a real impact.

This role will begin in September 2027. Assessment Centres for this role will take place on 2nd December and 17th March.

About You...

At Cooper Parry, shared success is the heartbeat of everything we do. We learn together, challenge each other, and back people who want to grow.

Studying for a professional qualification while working is no small feat. It takes commitment, resilience, and the ability to juggle priorities. But if you're excited by the idea of understanding how businesses and pension schemes operate, keen to make a difference, and driven to keep improving — you'll fit right in.

Graduates: You'll need a completed degree and at least 3 A Levels at grades BBC, including one numerical or business-related subject. School Leavers: You'll need the same A Level requirements.

Life doesn't always go to plan. If your grades were impacted by circumstances outside your control, talk to us. We're here to understand your story and help you find the right route forward.

We're Looking For People Who…

• Have a sharp eye for detail and a genuine interest in how numbers tell a story
• Communicate clearly and confidently, building trust with clients and teammates
• Thrive in fast-moving environments and enjoy working with different people
• Can juggle multiple tasks and stay organised under pressure
• Are enthusiastic about Audit and motivated to smash their qualification journey

Your day -to-day…

• Reviewing and documenting client information - invoices, bank statements, payroll reports
• Assessing the accuracy and reliability of financial data
• Attending client year-end stocktakes (sometimes on weekends or around Christmas)
• Speaking with client finance teams to understand their systems and processes
• Assisting in preparing financial statements using our audit software
• Working in small teams to carry out financial testing and contribute to audit reports
• Meeting deadlines and supporting your team to deliver high-quality work

You'll also be studying for your ACA Chartered Accountant Qualification through a mix of college courses and on-the-job learning. It typically takes around 3 years for graduates or 4 years for school leavers. Throughout, you'll be supported by your team, your managers, and our dedicated Student Support Manager.

About Us...

We're not your typical accountants. We cut through red tape, put people and relationships first, and deliver advice that’s clear, honest, and impactful. That's how we've become the fastest-growing accountancy firm in the UK - and we're only just getting started.

Some Of Our Proudest Achievements

• Ranked 1 in the Accountancy Age Mid - Tier Power Index (2022)
• Named Best Companies No.1 Accountancy Firm (2023) & 30 Best Large Company to Work For (2023)
• Achieved B Corp certification in 2023, reflecting our commitment to people, planet and purpose

What's In It For You…

We believe people do their best work when they feel supported, inspired, and empowered to be themselves. That's why we offer:

• A flexible approach to work - balancing home, office, and client time
• Generous holiday allowance
• A relaxed dress code - just wear something!
• A comprehensive wellbeing programme covering physical, mental, spiritual, and financial health
• Volunteering opportunities to give back
• Social and sports clubs to help you connect and unwind

We're proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. If you need adjustments during the application process, just let us know - we've got you.