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

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 real experience, fully funded professional qualifications, a full salary, and a clear route to Level 7 professional qualification (master's degree equivalent).

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 Pathway Options

Accountancy Pathway

• Study AAT Levels 3 and 4, followed by ACA, leading to Chartered Accountant status.
• Gain experience in Business Services, Audit & Assurance, and tailored placements.

Taxation Pathway

• Study AAT Level 3, followed by ATT and CTA, leading to Chartered Tax Adviser status.
• Gain experience in Personal Tax, Corporate Tax, and tailored placements in other tax specialisms.

Both pathways may offer experience in Corporate Finance and Financial Advisory as skills grow.

Programme Structure

• The first two years focus on developing technical and professional foundations through structured learning and qualifications.
• Following the initial two years, 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. After the first two years, access to your own vehicle will be expected.

Who We're Looking For

• Ambitious, motivated individuals ready to learn.
• No previous accounting knowledge or advanced maths skills are required.
• Candidates should demonstrate energy, enthusiasm, a desire to learn, pride in their work, trustworthiness, confidence in communication, curiosity, problem-solving skills, a positive attitude, and respect for others.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of 96 UCAS points from A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications (max three subjects), or Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers (max 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.
• 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 Graduate Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser positions.

Sponsorship Visas

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

Key Dates

• Assessment centres are expected from late February 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.