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

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. We are recruiting for our Level 7 Chartered Pathway Programme, 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 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 across 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 across Personal Tax, Corporate Tax, and tailored placements in other tax specialisms.

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

Programme Structure

• The first two years focus on developing strong technical and professional foundations through structured learning and qualifications.
• After the initial two years, you will build broader experience through placements in one of our 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. A driving licence is not required initially, but successful candidates must be willing to learn to drive within 3 months of joining if they do not already hold one. Access to your own vehicle will be expected after the first two years.

Who We're Looking For

We seek ambitious, motivated individuals who are ready to learn and eager to build a meaningful career. Previous accounting knowledge or advanced maths skills are not required, 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.
• Ability to build trust through actions, reliability, and professionalism.
• Confident communication and 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 (or equivalent), including Maths, English, and at least one science.
• Must 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.

Key Dates

• Assessment centres are expected to take place 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.