Trainee Accountant – Audit AAT

Trainee Accountant (School Leaver) - Audit - August 2026 .Are you a recent school leaver looking for a rewarding career in accountancy?

PEM, the largest independent accountancy firm in Cambridge, is seeking talented school leavers to join our Audit team as Trainee Accountants. This exciting opportunity is ideal for ambitious individuals looking to start a rewarding career in accountancy and auditing.

As a Trainee Accountant, you’ll assist with accounts preparation, audit assignments, and basic tax computations.

You’ll work on both client sites and office-based projects, gaining exposure to our diverse and exciting client base across various industry sectors.

You will join our dedicated early careers training programme on a 4 year apprenticeship to become an ICAEW qualified chartered accountant. Our early careers training programme includes:

• Comprehensive support to develop your skills and knowledge
• Market leading salary
• Fully-funded study package
• Bonuses for successfully passing exams first time
• 25 days annual leave
• Birthday leave
• Enhanced contributory pension scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Social events and team-building activities to foster a fun and engaging workplace
• Gym Flex, shopping discounts, cycle to work and other flexible benefit options
• Access to modern technology and tools that enhance your work experience
• A friendly, supportive and flexible work environment
• A minimum of 112 UCAS points from all your ‘A’ Levels in relevant subjects (maths, business, economics, etc.)
• Strong GCSE results
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Professional approach with a good eye for detail
• Ability to work flexibly and supportively within a busy team
• Commitment to maintaining high professional standards

Apply now and enjoy the benefits of working in Cambridge in a professional and friendly environment. Please follow these steps:

• Apply now and enjoy the benefits of working in Cambridge in a professional and friendly environment. Please follow these steps:
• A member of our talent team will review your application and assess your suitability for the role.
• If selected, you will be invited for an initial call with our talent team where you can discuss your skills and experiences in more detail and crucially why you would like to join PEM’s early years programme.
• If successful, you will be asked to complete a number of short skills tests to evaluate your numerical, written reasoning and attention to detail skills.
• Candidates will have a final interview with team managers to discuss the role and your potential fit within the team.
• If selected, you will receive a formal offer, and we will guide you through the onboarding process to get you started on your exciting journey with PEM.

“I like that the company is big enough to offer variety and structure to its trainee programs, but also small enough to feel personal. This ‘best of both worlds’ approach has been perfect for me so far - I’ve already learnt so much both in the office and at college.” – Rachel Blunt, Manager

“Since joining PEM from Hills Road, I have seen the exposure and insight at an early stage of my career that I would not have imagined. The support I have received from PEM particularly within my team has been exceptional, making it a pleasure to work for PEM. Although it is challenging it is also equally rewarding.” – Harriet Jones, Assistant Manager

“Since joining PEM in October 2017, I have been given endless opportunities to develop professionally, technically and personally, whilst being fully supported by the partner group. PEM is progressive, inclusive and an enjoyable place to work whilst ensuring its staff maintain a healthy work life balance.”

Are you an experienced audit professional ready to take the next step in your career? We are seeking an Assistant Manager in Audit to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will support partners and managers, lead audit fieldwork for key assignments, and ensure the highest standards of client care and technical excellence are maintained.

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