Entry Level
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School Leaver Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - Manchester - September

Saffery
Competitive
Manchester

Expected closing date: Sunday, 29 November 2026

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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

  • Start a career in Corporate Tax, studying towards ACA/CTA qualification.
  • Four and a half year structured training contract with full study support.
  • Requires 120 UCAS points and minimum grade 6/B in GCSE Maths and English.
  • Competitive salary and benefits package offered.
  • Applications close Sunday 29 November 2026.

About the Role

Saffery is seeking ambitious individuals to join their team as a trainee, studying towards the ACA/CTA joint qualification in Corporate Tax.

About Saffery

Saffery is a partner-led and people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers with a history dating back to 1855. They are a member of Nexia, a global network of trusted firms.

About the Programme

This is a four and a half year training contract with full support and access to first-class tuition centres. You will follow a structured development programme combining professional study with on-the-job learning. The programme includes a six-week business simulation designed to build key professional skills.

If you are AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions; otherwise, all trainees will complete the full ACA/CTA syllabus.

What You'll Do

  • Assist with tax returns, computations and other compliance filings.
  • Work with financial and client data to support reporting, analysis and submissions.
  • Use specialist software and systems to deliver high-quality tax work.
  • Carry out technical research and support client projects, queries and advisory work.
  • Prepare reports, calculations and documentation for review.
  • Build relationships with clients and colleagues.
  • Contribute to delivering practical solutions for clients.

What You'll Learn

  • Core tax principles, legislation and regulatory requirements.
  • How tax rules apply to different clients and business situations.
  • How to analyse financial information and prepare tax returns, calculations and technical documentation.
  • The role of tax in compliance, advisory work and business decision-making.
  • How to communicate technical information effectively.
  • The practical application of professional qualification studies.
  • Corporate tax compliance, reporting and tax planning opportunities.

What You'll Need

  • A minimum of 120 UCAS points from your top 3 A Levels or Highers (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels.
  • A minimum of 6 (or B) in GCSE or National 5 Maths and English Language (or equivalent).
  • Applications are welcomed from candidates who are AAT qualified (up to Level 4).

What We'll Offer You

  • Competitive salary
  • Profit-sharing scheme (approx. £1,000 per year)
  • Generous annual leave & flexible work arrangements
  • Contributory pension plan (5% salary match)
  • Buddy scheme and/or line manager support
  • Agile working policy (up to three days working from home)
  • Health assessments, GP access, & cancer screenings
  • Access to mental health & wellbeing resources
  • Mentorship & career progression opportunities
  • Participation in our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) programme
  • Opportunity to join People networks (Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility and Gender Equality)

Before You Apply

  • Familiarise yourself with the recruitment process on the Saffery website.
  • Practice psychometric tests and prepare for competency-based interviews.
  • You can apply to only one programme per recruitment season.
  • If you have experienced extenuating circumstances, contact EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com before applying.
  • Information on requesting reasonable adjustments will be provided during the assessment process.
  • Travel expenses will be reimbursed for in-person interviews.
  • Avoid booking annual leave around your expected start date.