Your future starts here
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. Please apply to this vacancy if you are looking for an apprenticeship after school/college.
Who we welcome
We recognise that talent comes from different paths, so we encourage applications from recent school leavers or career changers. We do not expect applicants to have any prior relevant work experience.
We have a few audit teams to consider:
Please review the following team information and be prepared to talk about your preference in your application form and at interview stage. We recommend you do thorough research into our client base and the associated industries to ensure you are choosing a team that will motivate you throughout your career with us. If you progress to final interview, you will interview with your chosen team.
Corporate Group
The Corporate Audit Group provides audit and accounting support, and wider advice, to a diverse range of clients across various sectors, including real estate, recruitment, retail and hospitality, and financial services. Our clients range from smaller, owner-managed businesses and entrepreneurial enterprises to medium and large international groups. We also work with a variety of charities and other not-for-profit organisations. As you progress through your training contract, you may have the opportunity to tailor your portfolio and specialise in a particular area of interest.
or,
Private Client Group
Within the Private Client Group at Saffery, the Private Client Business team looks after businesses and their owners. Those businesses include companies starting out or engaged in investment or multi-generational trading activities, landed estates, natural capital, partnerships and standalone private companies. These entities might be owned or controlled by individuals, Trustees or form part of a wider group structure. Whilst dealing with the compliance for these entities (accounts, audits, routine tax affairs), the team also acts for the individuals behind the businesses to provide advice on capital tax, succession planning and business valuation, looking at the business and individuals as a whole. In addition to supporting our clients, we assist those of the wider Private Client Group, working closely across the Group.
or,
Film, TV and Video Games Group
Our clients include all of the major Hollywood studios, major streaming networks as well as many independent film and television production companies in the US and UK. We also work with many other entities ancillary to film and television production, such as film financiers, visual effects and post-production houses and other service providers. Finally, we work with a number of video games developers ranging from small independents to large multi-national studios.
About the programme
Our training contract takes four years to complete with full support and access to first-class tuition centres.
You will complete the full ACA qualification. Exemptions to the ACA will only apply if you’re AAT Level 4 qualified.
Closing date:
15 April 2026
We encourage early applications to avoid disappointment. Due to high volume, you may experience delays in the process but we will review all submissions fairly.
Start Date:
We have two intakes - early September 2026 and early January 2027.
Your role and development
Your growth doesn't just come from exams, and it comes from valuable work experience and real-world learning.
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
We welcome applications from candidates who are AAT qualified. Please apply as usual and be sure to include your qualification details in the academic section.
If however, you have over 12 months relevant experience within a training contract at another firm, we recommend exploring part-qualified opportunities on our Experienced Hire vacancy page
Where potential meets personal meets you
At Saffery, we look for people who share our values - those who are collaborative, enthusiastic, and act with integrity while always striving for excellence.
You’ll be approachable and committed, ready to take ownership and go the extra mile to deliver our signature service. You won’t hesitate to speak up when something could be better and you’ll help to make it happen. We value drive, focus, and a positive attitude.
Here, you’re never just a number. You’re valued for who you are. We want your personality and style to shine, because we believe in caring more and letting egos take a back seat. We work hard, we support each other, and we enjoy the journey together. You’ll thrive in a close-knit team that takes pride in delivering high quality work.
There’s real mutual respect here and a two-way relationship where we bring out the best in each other.
We’ll help you get to know our clients, but it’s even better if you’re already curious about the broader economic landscape they operate in. Do your research. Ask questions. Be inquisitive.
We know the 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.
You’ll be surrounded by people who value you, your contributions, and your potential.
We understand that confidence plays a role in job applications, and some candidates may hesitate to apply. If this role excites you and aligns with your career ambitions, we’d love to hear from you!
What we’ll offer you
We believe that supporting our people leads to success, so we provide both core and flexible benefits tailored to your needs:
Financial support & flexibility
Work life balance & wellbeing
Personal development and belonging
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.
We pride ourselves on our informal and inclusive culture, building an environment where people can be themselves and enjoy challenging, interesting, rewarding careers.
When you work with Saffery, the well-respected accountancy firm where heritage meets ambition, you work with people who know your name. Who know you as a human being, not just a job title. Everyone belongs here. Always.
Ready to start your journey?
Explore life at Saffery & apply today:
What to know before you apply
