Graduate Trainee Accountant 2026
Location: Bristol | Salary: £26,000 base + performance bonus of up to 20+% of salary! | Start: September 2026
Robert Half are delighted to be working with Oakensen Chartered Accountant in recruiting for this outstanding opportunity.
Who we are
Oakensen is a dynamic, growing, independent accountancy firm. We work with ambitious, businesses - becoming an indispensable part of our clients' financial lives rather than just a compliance function. Our work is varied, our client relationships are genuine, and the standard we hold ourselves to is high.
As any business, but particularly as a service business, we understand that our success depends entirely on having the right people in a great environment doing great work. That's why we invest heavily in our team - and why we're looking for the next group of graduates to join us in Bristol.
The opportunity
From day one, you will be doing real work for real clients. You'll work across Taxation (personal and corporate), Accounts Preparation, VAT preparation, and Audit - building a broad, practical skillset directly relevant to your ACA studies. You'll deal directly with clients, take on genuine responsibilities, and be trusted to represent the firm well.
This is not a passive training role. At Oakensen, you'll work alongside a passionate and experienced team who are invested in your success. You will be challenged, supported, and developed - and by the time you qualify, you will be equipped to work at the highest level wherever your career takes you.
What you'll be doing
* Working across Taxation (personal and corporate), Accounts Preparation, VAT, and Audit.
* Dealing directly with clients - building relationships, providing excellent service, and delivering real value.
* Preparing financial statements for a range of businesses, to a high standard.
* Analysing data, solving problems and communicating findings clearly.
* Using a range of accounting software packages to provide modern solutions.
What we're looking for
* A graduate (minimum 2:1) in any discipline, or equivalent qualification.
* Intellectually sharp, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
* Resilient - you'll be learning a lot of new skills simultaneously, navigating real client pressures, and working through a demanding professional qualification. That's exactly what makes this role so valuable.
* Positive and adaptable - we are a firm that constantly evolves. The business you join today will look very different in five years, and we think that's exciting.
* Genuinely committed to a career in accounting - this role asks a lot of you, and you can get a lot out of it in return. It's not the right fit for everyone, and we're proud of that.
Your training and qualification
* Full study support for your ICAEW (ACA) qualification, including paid time off to attend college and sit exams.
* Tuition provided by Kaplan Financial, one of the leading ACA training providers in the country.
* A structured development plan, regular mentorship, and peer support throughout your training contract.
The package
* £26,000 base salary + performance-related bonus. Top performers in the current intake are earning significantly above base (20%+).
* 31 days holiday (23 days + 8 bank holidays).
* Hybrid working: 4 days in the office, 1 day from home (once your first exam is passed).
* Vitality health insurance, including benefits such as half-price gym memberships and a free Apple Watch.
* Standard Nest Pension.
* No long-hours culture. We are outcome-focused, not presenteeism-focused.
* Structured progression, clear development milestones, and quarterly team events.
* Cycle to work scheme.
Where our graduates go
Our track record speaks for itself. Past graduates have risen into senior leadership here at Oakensen. Others have gone on to become senior leaders at large firms, or moved into financial leadership roles in industry. We prepare them for everything.
Based in Bristol
This role is based at our Bristol office. Bristol is one of the UK's most vibrant cities for professionals - a thriving business community, excellent transport links, and a genuinely great place to build a career and a life.
Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.