Graduate Audit Trainee (ACA) - Bournemouth - January 2026

Saffery Champness; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking enthusiastic university graduates to embark on a rewarding journey as trainee chartered accountants. This three-year Level 7 apprenticeship offers a structured pathway to the ACA qualification, providing invaluable work experience and exposure to diverse clients. You'll thrive in a supportive environment, enhancing your skills through excellent training and collaborative opportunities. With a focus on integrity and excellence, this role promises a fulfilling career in audit, where your contributions will be valued and recognized. Don't miss the chance to kickstart your professional journey in a dynamic firm committed to your growth.

Benefits

Annual leave increasing with service

Flexible work hours

Contributory pension (5% employer contribution)

Life assurance (4x salary)

Monthly work-from-home allowance (£25)

Profit-sharing plan (approx. £1,000)

Paid overtime or time off in lieu

Option to work from home up to three days per week

Access to health assessments and insurance plans

Paid travel expenses for non-office locations

Qualifications

• Expected or obtained 2:1 degree in any discipline.
• Minimum of 120 UCAS points in A Levels or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Conduct audit testing of financial balances and accounts.
• Prepare for a senior audit role by handling entire files independently.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Education

2:1 degree in any discipline

A Levels with 120 UCAS points

GCSE Maths and English Language (Grade B)

Job description

Graduate Audit Trainee (ACA) - Bournemouth - January 2026

We are seeking university graduates eager to start their career in audit as trainee chartered accountants studying towards the ACA qualification.

This role is offered under a Level 7 apprenticeship and will take three years to complete.

Exemptions are available only if you are AAT Level 4 qualified. We believe that studying the full ACA program with a cohort significantly improves your chances of success.

Application windows:

Applications are open from:

Due to high demand, applications may close earlier than stated. We recommend applying promptly to avoid missing out.

Qualifying involves passing exams and gaining valuable work experience. You will work in a friendly, progressive environment on audit and accounts preparation assignments, with exposure to clients from various industries, ensuring a varied learning experience.

Initially, you may start with audit testing of simpler balances, such as cash at bank and share capital, progressing to more complex areas like income and expenditure testing. By the end of your training, you will be capable of handling entire files independently, preparing you for a senior audit role.

We provide excellent training and support for your studies, including access to top tuition centres and off-site trainee programs. You will also have opportunities to socialize with trainees across offices, making your experience enjoyable and collaborative.

What you'll need

• Expected or obtained 2:1 degree in any discipline,
• A minimum of 120 UCAS points in your A Levels (or equivalent), and
• A minimum of Grade B (6) in GCSE Maths and English Language (or equivalent).

About the qualification

The three-year ACA training contract is offered under a Level 7 apprenticeship. Studying as an apprentice does not extend the qualification timeline but provides a structured pathway to maximize your success, equipping you with technical knowledge and key skills.

Our values and your development

We value collegiality, enthusiasm, integrity, and excellence. We seek friendly, approachable individuals who are committed, accountable, and eager to deliver high-quality work. We encourage you to be inquisitive, ask questions, and show initiative.

At Saffery, your personality and style are valued. We foster a respectful, supportive environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to our collective success.

We understand the commitment required for your ACA exams and will support you throughout your journey with us, helping you grow professionally and personally.

What we offer

We provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and work-life balance, including:

• Annual leave increasing with service,
• A 35-hour workweek with flexible hours,
• Contributory pension (5% employer contribution),
• Life assurance (4x salary),
• Monthly work-from-home allowance (£25),
• Profit-sharing plan (approx. £1,000),
• Paid overtime or time off in lieu,
• Option to work from home up to three days per week,
• Access to health assessments, GP support, and insurance plans,
• Additional schemes including Tech, Cycles, and Gymflex,
• Workplace ISA,
• Paid travel expenses for non-office locations,
• Referral bonuses for bringing in new clients or colleagues.

We are committed to inclusivity, equality, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I). New joiners can participate in various networks and initiatives to promote a diverse workplace.

Who we are

Saffery is a partner-led, people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax, and business advisors, established in 1855. As part of the Nexia network, we offer global insights with local expertise. Our culture is informal, inclusive, and rewarding, where individuals are valued and encouraged to be themselves.