Level 7 Chartered Pathway Programme (Start Ahead) - Trainee Accountant

Start Ahead

Earn a salary. Gain professional qualifications. Build real experience from day one.

About Armstrong Watson

Armstrong Watson is on a journey to more than double its turnover by 2030 through disciplined organic growth, the attraction of outstanding talent, and the selective acquisition of like-minded firms. The firm aims to become the most respected adviser to privately owned businesses in the North and the UK, defined by exceptional service, deep expertise, trusted relationships, and absolute reliability.

The Role

Start Ahead is an Early Careers pathway for ambitious students seeking to earn, learn, and build a respected professional career from day one. This is a structured six-year Level 7 Chartered Pathway Programme, commencing in September 2027. The programme offers real experience, fully funded globally recognised professional qualifications, a full salary, and a clear route towards Level 7 professional qualification (master's degree equivalent).

You will work with real clients, learn how businesses operate, and develop technical knowledge, commercial understanding, communication skills, and professional confidence. You will be supported by experienced colleagues, mentors, and training providers.

Armstrong Watson has been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work in 2025 and 2026 and a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer for five consecutive years.

What You'll Gain

• Earn a full salary while completing studies and professional exams.
• Gain fully funded, globally recognised professional qualifications.
• Progress to a Level 7 qualification, equivalent to a Master's degree.
• Work towards Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser status.
• Avoid university debt.
• Build real client experience from the start.
• Gain exposure across different teams and service lines.
• Develop communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professional skills.

Your Accountancy Pathway

You will study AAT Levels 3 and 4, followed by ACA, leading to Chartered Accountant status. Experience will be gained across Business Services, Audit & Assurance, and tailored placements across the firm. As your skills grow, you may also gain experience in areas such as Corporate Finance and Financial Advisory.

Life on the Programme

The first two years involve developing strong technical and professional foundations through structured learning and qualifications. Following this, you will build broader experience through placements in one of the firm's regional offices (Glasgow, Carlisle, Newcastle, Leeds, or Manchester), which will become your home office. Visiting clients on location is a key part of the role. Successful candidates must be willing to learn to drive within 3 months of joining if they do not hold a full UK driving licence, and after the first two years, you will be expected to have access to your own vehicle.

You will join a cohort of trainees and receive support from colleagues, mentors, training providers, and the wider Armstrong Watson team.

Who We're Looking For

Ambitious, motivated individuals who are ready to learn and want more than just the next step in their career. You do not need previous accounting knowledge or advanced maths skills, as the programme is designed to develop technical knowledge from the ground up. Key attributes include:

• Energy, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to learn and succeed.
• Pride in work quality and a commitment to doing the right thing.
• Building trust through actions, reliability, and professionalism.
• Confident communication and strong relationship-building skills.
• Curiosity, ownership, and a practical approach to problem-solving.
• Embracing learning, growth, and contribution to team success.
• A positive, can-do attitude and willingness to go beyond expectations.
• Respect, kindness, and professionalism towards others.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of 96 UCAS points from A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications (across a maximum of three subjects), or from Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers (across a maximum of five subjects).
• A minimum of 7 GCSEs or 6 National Fives at Grade 5 (C) or above (or equivalent), including Maths, English, and at least one science.
• To be at least 18 years of age by 31 August 2027.

Note: If you have already completed a degree or are due to graduate in 2027, please apply for our Graduate Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser positions instead.

Sponsorship Visas

Armstrong Watson is not a registered employer and therefore cannot offer sponsorship to candidates.

Key Dates

• Assessment centres are expected to take place from late February onwards.
• Successful candidates will join in September 2027.

Benefits

• A competitive salary with progressive increases.
• Fully funded professional qualifications.
• Paid study leave and training support.
• A structured development programme.
• Support from experienced colleagues, mentors, and training providers.
• 21 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing with service).
• Annual leave purchase scheme.
• Health Shield Cash Plan.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Paid professional subscriptions.
• Referral and reward schemes.
• Regular social events and recognition initiatives.

Why Join Armstrong Watson?

Join a firm that is building something exceptional and is looking for exceptional people to help achieve its ambitious goals. This programme offers the opportunity, support, and experience to build a career that most people start years later, gaining professional qualifications, meaningful experience, and developing the skills to become a trusted adviser.