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

Start Ahead is Armstrong Watson's Early Careers pathway for ambitious students who want to earn, learn, and build a respected professional career from day one. This is a structured six-year programme designed to provide real experience, fully funded globally recognised professional qualifications, a full salary, and a clear route towards Level 7 professional qualification (master's degree equivalent).

What You'll Do

• Work with real clients and learn how businesses operate.
• Develop technical knowledge, commercial understanding, communication skills, and professional confidence.
• Be supported by experienced colleagues, mentors, and training providers.
• Gain exposure across different teams and service lines, including Business Services, Audit & Assurance, and potentially Corporate Finance and Financial Advisory.
• Spend the first two years developing strong technical and professional foundations through structured learning and qualifications.
• Build broader experience through placements across the business in one of their regional offices (Glasgow, Carlisle, Newcastle, Leeds, or Manchester).
• Visit clients on location; a driving licence will be required within 3 months of joining, and access to your own vehicle after the first two years.

What You'll Gain

• A full salary while completing studies and professional exams.
• Fully funded globally recognised professional qualifications (AAT Levels 3 and 4, followed by ACA).
• Progress to a Level 7 qualification, equivalent to a Master's degree.
• Work towards Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser status.
• Avoid university debt.
• Real client experience from the start.
• Exposure across different teams and service lines.
• Development of communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professional skills.

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: Armstrong Watson is not a registered employer and cannot offer sponsorship visas.

Key Dates

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

Benefits

• Competitive salary with progressive increases.
• Fully funded professional qualifications.
• Paid study leave and training support.
• 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.