Graduate Audit Trainee; ACA

Graduate Audit Trainee (ACA) - High Wycombe - January 2027

Are you looking to start your career in audit? We’re seeking ambitious individuals from all backgrounds to join our team as a trainee, studying towards the ACA qualification.

We recognise that talent comes from different paths, so we encourage applications from recent graduates or career changers. We do not expect applicants to have any prior relevant work experience.

Our training contract takes three years to complete with full support and access to first‑class tuition centres. If you’re AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions, otherwise we ask all trainees to complete the full ACA. We believe that studying alongside a cohort gives you the best chance of exam success.

Your growth doesn't just come from exams; it comes from valuable work experience and real‑world learning.

• You’ll be taken through the various stages of an audit from planning to completion.
• Work on audit and accounts preparation assignments for clients across diverse industries.
• Learn how to conduct client reviews, audit testing, and financial analysis.
• Visit client sites and build strong relationships to gain a deeper understanding of their business.
• Progressively take on more responsibility, enabling you to understand the full audit cycle.

We’ll support you every step of the way through mentorship, structured training, and our off‑site trainee programmes as well as regular social events to build friendships with colleagues.

What you’ll need

• 2:1 undergraduate degree (expected or obtained) in any discipline.
• A minimum of 120 UCAS points from your top 3 A Levels (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels.
• A minimum of 6 (or
  
  B) in GCSE Maths and English Language (or equivalent).

We look for people who are collaborative, enthusiastic, act with integrity and strive for excellence.

You’ll be approached with a supportive culture and high‑quality work environment.

We know the ACA exams are demanding, and we’ll be right there to support you every step of the way. Your commitment will play a big part in our continued success.

What we’ll offer you

• Profit‑sharing scheme (approx. £1,000 per year)
• Generous annual leave & flexible work arrangements
• Contributory pension plan (5% salary match)

Work life balance & wellbeing

• Buddy scheme and/or line manager support
• Agile working policy (up to three days working from home, however in your first few months we do encourage up to 4 days in the office to reap the benefits of training around your managers and colleagues)
• Health assessments, GP access, & cancer screenings
• Access to mental health & wellbeing resources

Personal development and belonging

• Mentorship & career progression opportunities
• Participation in our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) programme
• Volunteer to join one of our People networks including Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility and Women

Who we are

Saffery is a partner‑led and people‑focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, we’ve built long‑term relationships with our diverse, high‑profile clients, across varied and specialised sectors. As a proud member of Nexia, a worldwide network of trusted member firms, we’ve got access to local insight on a global scale.

When you work with Saffery, the well‑respected accountancy firm where heritage meets ambition, you work with people who know your name. You are known as a human being, not just a job title. Everyone belongs here. Always.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, please let us know by including the details in the relevant section on the application form. We’re committed to assessing all applicants fairly and want to do everything we can to support your success throughout the process.

We also provide reimbursement for your travel expenses when you are selected for an in‑person interview.