Audit Apprenticeship (AAT) - St Albans - March

Moore Kingston Smith is committed to fostering potential and understanding. As an accredited training firm, we offer first-class professional development in a supportive environment.

Audit Apprenticeship (AAT)

Through our Level 4 Audit Apprenticeship, you will gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills, and build the foundation for a successful career in audit. You will work with businesses across a wide range of sectors, delivering exceptional client service while earning a Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).

Our Advice, Audit & Accounts team has broad experience across audit, accounts, tax, and advisory services, supporting clients from sole traders to medium and large businesses in sectors including financial services, hospitality, real estate, and technology.

From the outset, you will engage with clients, understand their businesses, identify challenges, and learn about their sectors. Projects vary in duration, and you will be encouraged to take responsibility early on, mastering all aspects of the role and audit process.

Our St Albans office supports local enterprises across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire, and is actively involved in the local business community.

How We Work

As a trainee, you will be immersed in the office environment, learning through observation and working alongside colleagues. While some flexibility exists, trainees should generally expect to be in the office most working days.

Key Responsibilities (First 12 Months):

• Develop a strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and auditing guidelines.
• Attend client offices and represent the firm professionally.
• Assist in planning audits, including reviewing prior year information and preparing lead schedules.
• Perform audit testing on key financial areas.
• Check the accuracy of financial schedules and ensure figures agree with supporting records.
• Prepare financial statements in line with relevant standards and legal requirements.
• Draft corporation tax computations and support tax-related audit procedures.
• Liaise with clients to gather documentation and clarify queries.
• Maintain accurate and well-organised working papers.
• Review and update client data in accounting and tax software systems.
• Identify and suggest improvements to client systems and internal processes.
• Support the preparation of audit close-out meeting materials.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams.
• Help manage client expectations and meet deadlines.

As you develop, you will take more ownership of audit sections, communicate directly with clients, mentor newer team members, contribute to planning, and handle more complex technical areas.

Upon nearing completion of the AAT apprenticeship, you may be considered for progression onto the Association of Chartered Accountants (ACA) pathway, potentially leading to becoming a fully qualified Chartered Accountant.

Your Path to Qualification

This is a structured two-year training contract and Level 4 apprenticeship programme, during which you will study towards the Level 3 and Level 4 AAT professional qualifications.

What this means for you:

• Complete 10 AAT exams.
• Gain relevant work experience with on-the-job learning.
• Develop key professional skills through structured training.
• Maintain your apprenticeship file.
• Follow a planned schedule of work and study.

Support provided includes:

• In-person tuition with a training provider during set study blocks.
• Paid study leave.
• Ongoing support from a Buddy, Training Manager, and Training Partner.
• Access to wellbeing resources.

Who are we looking for?

The AAT training programme is open to students from various backgrounds, including those straight out of college or seeking a career change. A university degree is not required.

We look for:

• Clear motivation for a career in audit and understanding of the AAT qualification and auditors' roles.
• Enthusiasm for building relationships and collaborating with clients and colleagues.
• A proactive, results-driven attitude with a commitment to high-quality work.
• Dedication to ethical standards.
• Strong commitment and reliability to balance studies and work.
• A growth mindset and adaptable approach.
• A commitment to understanding, built on respect, collaboration, and active listening.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Achieved a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points from three A Levels (or equivalent qualifications), excluding any Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
• This role is for those without a degree.
• Permitted to work in the UK for at least 2 years from the start date.

Recruitment Process

We recruit on a rolling basis. The application process includes:

1. Application
2. Interactive assessment
3. Virtual interview
4. Final interview in the office

We offer support throughout the recruitment process and the training contract, including confidential discussions about individual support and adjustments.