Trainee Accountant (School Leaver Programme) - Summer 2026

Price Bailey; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading accountancy firm in the UK is seeking motivated individuals for its trainee school leaver program. The role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in business, audit, or tax while pursuing professional qualifications like AAT or ACA. Expectations include at least 112 UCAS points and GCSEs in English and Maths. Enjoy comprehensive study support, paid leave for exams, a contributory pension, and various perks. Join a workplace that values diversity and growth.

Benefits

Fully funded study support

Paid study leave

23 days holiday plus bank holidays

Bonuses for passing exams

Contributory pension scheme

Share scheme for all employees

2 paid volunteering days a year

Cycle to work scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Predicted / achieved at least 112 UCAS points.
• GCSE English Language and Maths (or equivalent) at grade 5 or above.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accounts and basic tax returns using financial information.
• Conduct audit testing on client financial accounts.
• Undertake corporate and personal tax compliance work.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Teamwork skills

Confident using Microsoft Office

Education

At least 112 UCAS points from top 3 A-Levels

GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 5 or above

Job description

help you explore your options during the selection process. Here's a quick snapshot: Business: in this team you'll prepare accounts and basic tax returns using financial information provided by our clients. Audit & Assurance: in this team you'll dive into client's financial accounts and carry out audit testing to ensure an independent review of their accuracy. Tax: in this team you'll undertake corporate and personal tax compliance work on behalf of our clients and assist with any HMRC queries that arise.

What You'll Learn

Depending on your department you will generally study for either an AAT or ATT qualification over your first 18‑24 months. In most circumstances this will be followed by an ACA, ACCA or CTA qualification over the next 2½‑3 years. In some cases you’ll be enrolled straight onto the ACA programme spread over a 4½‑year pathway. You’ll gain valuable hands‑on experience of client work from day one, with direct access to partners and senior leaders who’ll support you every step of the way. You’ll also attend internal training to build essential soft skills such as time management, communication and making a great first impression. You won’t be doing this alone either – a buddy who’s been in your shoes will be on hand to help and guide you wherever necessary.

What We’re Looking For

We’re all about potential. If you’re motivated, curious and ready to learn we want to hear from you. As a minimum you’ll need:

• Predicted / achieved at least 112 UCAS points (or equivalent) from your top 3 A‑Levels
• GCSE English Language and Maths (or equivalent) at grade 5 or above
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Confident using Microsoft Office, especially Excel

What You’ll Get

• Fully funded study support
• Paid study leave
• 23 days’ holiday plus bank holidays
• Bonuses for passing exams
• Contributory pension scheme
• Share scheme for all employees
• 2 paid volunteering days a year
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme (with discounts)

What You’ll Be Doing

As a trainee on our school leaver programme you will join one of the following departments – Business, Audit & Assurance or Tax. Not sure which is right for you? No worries – we’ll discuss options during the selection process.

What Happens Next

Once you apply you’ll be invited to complete a few short tests (numerical and deductive reasoning) and a pre‑recorded video interview (which we watch personally) – all at your own pace. If you’re successful, we’ll invite you to an in‑person assessment centre. Please note that assessment centres for this vacancy will take place in our City of London office on Tuesday 24 and Friday 27 February 2026.

Equal Opportunities Statement

Price Bailey aspires to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people, regardless of their social background, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity or marriage and civil partnership. We are an equal opportunities employer and place inclusion at the heart of what we do. Our workplace is one where diversity is embraced and where everyone is empowered to be their authentic selves.