Trainee Accountant (School Leaver Programme) - Summer 2026

Make your career count

At Price Bailey, we provide exciting opportunities for training, personal growth and career engagement. We believe in fostering happiness and fulfilment in your work, whilst supporting and inspiring you to grow. We understand that your life extends beyond the workplace, which is why our Smart Working culture promotes flexibility, allowing you to choose when and where you work whilst still providing excellent client care.

We're a leading firm of chartered accountants and business advisors, offering a wide range of services including auditing, accounting, tax, and corporate finance. We proudly support a diverse client base across the UK and internationally, with a strong focus on entrepreneurial, owner-managed businesses that share our passion for innovation.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Trainee on our school leaver programme, you'll join one of the following departments - Business, Audit & Assurance or Tax. Not sure which one's right for you? No worries - we'll help you explore your options during the selection process.

Here's a quick snapshot:

• Business: in this team you'll prepare accounts and basic tax returns using financial information provided by our clients. Watch this video for a brief overview of what to expect working on in the Business team.
• Audit & Assurance: in this team you'll dive into client's financial accounts and carry out audit testing to ensure an independent review of their accuracy. Watch this video for a brief overview of what to expect working on in the Audit & Assurance team.
• Tax: in this team you'll undertake corporate and personal tax compliance work on behalf of our clients and assist with any HMRC queries that arise.

This role is based in our Bishop's Stortford office. If your preference is to work from our London office, applications for that location will open in November—please wait until then to apply.

What You'll Learn

Depending on your department, you'll generally study for either an AAT or ATT qualification over your first 18 - 24 months, and in most circumstances this will be followed by an ACA, ACCA or CTA qualification over the next 2 ½ - 3 years. In some cases, you'll be enrolled straight onto the ACA programme spread over a 4 ½ year pathway.

You'll gain valuable hands-on experience of client work from day one, with direct access to partners and senior leaders who'll support you every step of the way. You'll also attend internal training to build essential soft skills like time management, communication, and making a great first impression. You won't be doing this alone either - a buddy who's been in your shoes will be on hand to help and guide you wherever necessary.

What We're Looking For

We're all about potential. If you're motivated, curious, and ready to learn, we want to hear from you.

As minimum though, here's what you'll need:

• Predicted / have achieved at least 112 UCAS points (or equivalent) from your top 3 A-Levels
• GCSE English Language and Maths (or equivalent) at grade 5 or above
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Confident using Microsoft Office (especially Excel)

What You'll Get

• Fully funded study support
• Paid time off for college and study leave
• 23 days' holiday plus bank holidays
• Bonuses for passing exams
• Contributory pension scheme
• Share scheme for all employees
• 2 paid volunteering days a year
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme (with discounts)

What Happens Next

Once you apply, you'll be invited to complete a few short tests (numerical and deductive reasoning) and a pre-recorded video interview (which we watch personally) - all at your own pace. No need to do it all in one go.

If you're successful, we'll invite you to an in-person assessment centre.

We recruit on a rolling basis, so we recommend completing the process as soon as you can to maximise your chances of securing a place.