Early Careers Trainee

EQ Accountants, part of the Sumer Group; Epsom; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Study leave

Mentoring program

Sumer Academy training

Career progression opportunities

Exposure to diverse clients

Job summary

EQ Accountants, part of the Sumer Group, invites applications for our Early Careers Trainee Programme in Livingston. You'll join a friendly team and work toward professional qualifications (AAT, ICAS or ATT) while gaining hands-on experience in Audit, Accounts or Tax.

The programme includes full study support, paid study leave, mentoring and access to the Sumer Academy, plus a cohort of trainees nationwide. Start September 2027 with 35 hours/week and a permanent contract.

Qualifications

• Strong A-Level or equivalent academic history with required grades.
• Interest in Audit, Accounts or Tax and accounting pathway.
• Commitment to professional studies alongside work.
• Ability to learn quickly and work with a team.

Responsibilities

• Gain hands-on experience in Audit, Accounts or Tax from day one.
• Work with a range of clients and contribute to projects.
• Progress through training contract towards professional qualifications.

Skills

Effective communicator

Collaborative

Time management

Problem solver

Results oriented

Keen to learn

Education

A-Level or equivalent

Job description

• Deadline for completing online tests: 27th October

Department: Early Careers

Location: Livingston

Description

EQ is proud to be part of the Sumer Group, one of the UK’s fastest-growing accountancy practices. Together, we’re creating brighter futures for our people, our clients, and our communities.

We’re now inviting applications for our Early Careers Trainee Programme, designed for those ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in accountancy. Whether your passion lies in Audit, Accounts or Tax, you’ll gain the skills, qualifications and experience to become a fully qualified professional, supported every step of the way.

Role Overview

You’ll be joining a friendly, professional team where enthusiasm, curiosity and commitment are valued as highly as experience. From day one, you’ll work with a range of clients, gaining hands‑on experience within Audit, Accounts or Tax. Depending on the team you join, this could include preparing accounts, supporting audits, or providing insightful tax and business advice.

As your confidence grows, so will your responsibilities. You’ll have opportunities to work directly with clients, contribute to projects, and gain a real understanding of how successful businesses operate.

We’ll equip you with the technical training and personal skills development you need to progress, ensuring you build a strong foundation for a long‑term career in accountancy.

The Programme

You’ll join a training contract, combining practical client experience with professional study towards your qualification (AAT, ICAS or ATT).

Alongside your qualification, you’ll become part of the Sumer Academy, our dedicated early careers development programme. The Academy runs alongside your studies, offering a blend of online and in‑person learning, focused on building both your technical and soft skills that will help you thrive in your future career.

You’ll also train as part of a group‑wide cohort, connecting with other trainees from across the Sumer Group to share experiences and learn together.

What’s on offer

• Full study support, including paid study leave and course fees
• Buddy and mentoring systems to help you settle in and progress
• Group‑wide cohort training through the Sumer Academy
• Opportunities to grow your career beyond qualification
• Exposure to a diverse range of clients and projects

About You

To apply, you’ll need a strong A-Level or equivalent academic history, including a minimum of a Grade C in English and B in Maths at National 5 level (or equivalent).

You’ll also be:

• effective communicator – confident in listening and expressing ideas clearly with clients and colleagues.
• Collaborative – a team player who enjoys sharing ideas and working together to achieve great results.
• Time efficient – able to balance work and study with good organisation and prioritisation.
• A problem solver – curious, adaptable and ready to take on challenges.
• Results focused – proud to deliver a high standard of work and service.
• Keen to learn – enthusiastic about developing your skills and career.

The Process

Our application process is designed to help you show your best self:

• Application Review
• Online testing (behavioural, numerical and comprehension)
• Assessment Centre & Individual Interview
• Offer

Key Dates

• Advert closes: 18th Oct­ober
• Online tests to be sent out: 20th Oct­ober
• Deadline for completing online tests: 27th Oct­ober
• Assessment Centre: The assessment centre for this role will be held on 12th November at our Edinburgh office.

Key Details

• Locations: Livingston
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday
• Start Date: September 2027

Belong @ Sumer

At Sumer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment, not just as buzzwords, but as the heartbeat of our team. Our recruitment practices reflect this commitment, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. We prioritise creating an environment where every candidate feels respected and supported throughout the hiring process.

Everyone is unique and we understand that each individual may have distinct needs to showcase their best selves during interviews. Our commitment is to offer personalised support for all candidates. Let our team know how we can bring out your fullest potential.

Our Values

We have a strong set of values that define who we are and everything we do:

• WE SHINE TOGETHER – We celebrate everyone’s individuality and work as one team.
• WE DO THE RIGHT THING – We act with kindness, fairness and integrity in everything we do.
• WE MAKE IT COUNT – We’re quietly brave as we make a difference, every day, for our clients and communities.