Accounting Trainee - School Leaver (August 2024) (0157)

At Price Bailey, we provide exciting opportunities for training, personal growth and career engagement. We believe in fostering happiness and fulfilment in your work, whilst supporting and inspiring you to grow. We understand that your life extends beyond the workplace, which is why our Smart Working culture promotes flexibility, allowing you to choose when and where you work whilst still providing excellent client care.

As a leading firm of chartered accountants and business advisors, we offer a wide range of services, including auditing, accounting, tax and corporate finance. We proudly serve a diverse client base across the UK and internationally, with a strong focus on entrepreneurial owner-managed businesses that share our passion for innovation.

What will I be doing?

As a Trainee on our First Step programme (suitable for recent school/college leavers), you will have the opportunity to join our Business, Corporate, Tax, or Outsourcing department, but don't worry if you're not sure which one is the best fit for you just yet. Throughout the selection process, we will provide you with insights into each department, taking your preferences into account before making an offer to successful candidates. One thing's for sure though – you'll experience a wide range of exciting work and have plenty of access to partners and senior management who will guide you every step of the way.

Business: You will work on preparing sets of accounts and calculating basic tax returns using financial information provided by our clients.

Corporate: You will be involved in carrying out substantive audit testing on financial accounts prepared by our clients, ensuring an independent review of their accuracy.

Tax: You will undertake corporate and personal tax compliance work on behalf of our clients and assist with any HMRC queries that arise.

Outsourcing: You will work with innovative accounting systems to maintain the financial records for businesses that have chosen to outsource some/all of their finance function.

All vacancies now filled other than in Outsourcing.

What will I learn?

During your training contract you will study for an accountancy or tax qualification (CFAB / AAT / ATT and/or ACA), which typically takes five years to complete from start to finish. We provide comprehensive study support, including dedicated time off for college and access to a buddy who can offer valuable insights based on their previous experience.

We believe in building a solid foundation for your career, so that's why we provide ongoing training to develop your soft skills. You'll gain hands-on client experience from the start, including direct contact with clients, so in your first year we'll equip you with essential skills like making a positive first impression, mastering effective time management techniques, and enhancing your communication skills.

What experience do I need?

Whilst having the following experience is advantageous, we value passion and potential. If you meet the minimum criteria listed below and are eager to develop yourself, we would love to hear from you:

• On track to achieve at least a minimum of 112 UCAS points (or equivalent) in your top three A-Levels (minimum requirement).
• GCSE English Language and Maths (or equivalent) at grade 5 or better (minimum criteria).
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong MS Excel skills would be beneficial.

What's on offer?

In addition to your salary, we offer the following benefits:

• 23 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Bonuses for successfully passing exams.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• 4x life assurance.
• All-employee share scheme.
• 2 days of paid volunteering leave.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), including shopping discounts.

What happens next?

Upon applying, you will be invited to undertake initial tests, including numerical and verbal reasoning, and a pre-recorded video interview. You can complete these at your convenience, and you will not be required to finish everything in one sitting.

Successful applicants might then be invited to attend an in-person assessment centre. Someone from our team will be in touch to confirm within four weeks of you completing the tests.