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

Start Ahead

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

About the Programme

Armstrong Watson is seeking ambitious individuals for its six-year Level 7 Chartered Pathway Programme, commencing in September 2027. This programme offers:

• A full salary while completing studies and professional exams.
• Fully funded, globally recognised professional qualifications.
• Progression to a Level 7 qualification, equivalent to a Master's degree.
• Work towards Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser status.
• Avoidance of university debt.
• Real client experience from the start.
• Exposure across different teams and service lines.
• Development of 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 within the firm. You may also gain experience in Corporate Finance and Financial Advisory.

Programme Structure

The first two years focus on building technical and professional foundations. Subsequently, you will gain 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 is a key part of the role, and successful candidates will be expected to learn to drive within 3 months of joining if they do not already hold a UK driving licence. After the initial two years, you'll need your own vehicle.

You will join a cohort of trainees and receive support from colleagues, mentors, and training providers.

Who We're Looking For

We are looking for ambitious, motivated individuals who are ready to learn and eager to build a respected professional career. Previous accounting knowledge or advanced maths skills are not required. 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.
• Ability to build trust through actions, reliability, and professionalism.
• Confident communication and strong relationship-building skills.
• Curiosity, ownership, and a problem-solving attitude.
• Willingness to embrace learning and contribute to team success.
• A positive, can-do attitude.
• 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, 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.

Sponsorship Visas

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

Key Dates

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

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.