In a nutshell
Join us as a trainee accountant and work towards your AAT qualification. You’ll earn while you learn, gaining hands on experience alongside your studies. We pay for all your training and qualifications and support you every step of the way. We’re proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work for the third-year running, making this an excellent place to launch your accountancy career.
What you'll be doing
You’ll have the opportunity to join one of our specialist teams, each focused on distinct areas of client work:
Our Business Advisory team works with a fantastic range of clients, from sole traders and family-owned businesses to partnerships and private individuals. As part of our general practice team, you’ll build a solid foundation in accounting and business support, gaining hands on experience across a broad range of services. You’ll be involved in preparing accounts, supporting clients with day today queries and working alongside specialists in areas such as tax, audit and financial planning. It’s a great way to develop your technical skills, learn how businesses operate and start building strong client relationships early in your career.
Our Agriculture and Landed Estates team works with a variety of clients, from historic country estates to a wide range of farming businesses. As part of this team, you’ll develop practical skills in accounting and business support while working closely with clients to understand how rural businesses operate and adapt in a constantly evolving sector. Alongside your day today work, you’ll also have the opportunity to attend external industry events, helping you to develop strong relationships across the rural community.
Please indicate on your application form if you have a particular preference for either of the above departments.
About you
You’ll enjoy this job if you like:
1. Taking initiative and achieving goals
2. Communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing
3. Building strong relationships and working collaboratively
4. Working with numbers and solving problems
5. Being analytical and methodical in your approach
Studying alongside working is demanding. As an AAT trainee, you’ll need to do regular independent study and revision for your professional exams. It typically takes around three years to complete an AAT qualification.
Your development
We recognise that personal development training is essential in helping you to become an accountant, so alongside your AAT you’ll receive personal development training to help you grow the skills and behaviours needed to become a successful accountant.
You’ll be supported every step of the way:
6. A buddy before you start, to help you settle in
7. A line manager and student counsellor will help you stay on track with your professional qualification and career goals
8. Ongoing learning and development opportunities beyond qualifications, helping you progress into manager roles and beyond
Starting your career straight from school can feel daunting, but at PKF Francis Clark, you’ll never be on your own. From day one, you’ll be supported by a strong network of colleagues, from fellow trainees to managers and partners. Everyone is treated with respect and made to feel valued. Plus, you’ll be joining alongside lots of other trainees, so you’ll be learning and growing together.
What we're looking for
Bright, motivated school and college leavers who want to build a meaningful career in accountancy. This programme offers structured development, early responsibility, and long-term progression.
Entry requirements:
9. Minimum of 112 UCAS points (from three A Levels or equivalent, excluding general studies and EPQ)
10. GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above
11. Available to start August 2026
How to apply
Apply online by midnight on Sunday, 25 January 2026. We recommend applying early, as the window may close if we receive a high number of applications. Please note you can only apply for one role per recruitment cycle.
Recruitment process
Our selection process includes the following stages:
12. Online application
13. Verbal and numerical reasoning tests
14. Pre-recorded video interview
15. In person assessment centre
We’re committed to creating an inclusive and positive experience for all candidates. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, whether related to a disability, neurodiversity, or any other need, please let us know, and we ’ll do our best to support you.