Summary
If university isn't the right choice for you and you have a genuine interest in accountancy and finance, we are offering a three-year apprenticeship to achieve the AAT accounting qualification (Level 3 & 4). The role will involve preparing audit documentation and carrying out basic audit tests as part of a team.
Annual wage £21,000 a year
We have a set salary progression ladder with a pay rise approximately every 12 months. By the time you complete your apprenticeship, your salary will have increased to £27,000.
Training course: Professional accounting or taxation technician (level 4)
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9.00am - 5.30pm (37 hours a week)
Possible start date: Tuesday 26 August
Duration: 3 years
Positions available: 3
Work
As an apprentice, you'll work at a company and get hands-on experience. You'll gain new skills and work alongside experienced staff.
What you'll do at work
* Prepare audit planning documentation for review by the supervisor and carry out internal control, system and walkthrough tests
* Carry out basic audit tests as part of a team in relation to other statutory and non-statutory audits and due diligence work
* Attend simple stock takes
* Build trusted relationships with clients, liaising with them to answer general queries
Where you'll work
Reading Bridge House, George Street, Reading, RG1 8LS
Training
An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.
College or training organisation
FIRST INTUITION READING LIMITED
Your training course
Professional accounting or taxation technician (level 4)
Equal to higher national certificate (HNC)
Course contents
* Professional Accounting or Taxation Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship Standard
* You will become AAT qualified
* Training will be a mix of classroom-based courses and self-study
* Classroom sessions will be block release and generally take place at our training provider's premises in central Reading
More training information
* Please note that for our August 2025 intake, apprenticeship opportunities are available in our Reading, Newbury, and Oxford offices, but not Southampton or London
Requirements
Essential qualifications
* GCSE in English Language (grade 4 or higher)
* GCSE in Maths (grade 4 or higher)
* All subjects excluding General Studies (grade BBC, or 112 UCAS points min)
Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.
Skills
* Communication skills
* IT skills
* Attention to detail
* Organisation skills
* Problem-solving skills
* Administrative skills
* Number skills
* Analytical skills
* Logical thinking
* Team working
* Initiative
Other requirements
Working in Audit you will need to have a full UK driving licence and access to a car. This is because, although you will have a base office, you will need to be able to travel to other James Cowper Kreston offices and to client sites, not all of which are easily accessible by public transport.
About this company
James Cowper Kreston is a leading firm of accountants and business advisers, with offices in Newbury, Reading, Oxford, Southampton, and London. We are passionate about enabling our clients and staff to maximise their potential, meaning that we approach everyone as an individual, not with a pre-set script. For over 100 years we have been working with clients, not just as accountants ensuring audit, accounts, and tax compliance, but as an integral part of their team offering a full range of advisory services, working with them to unlock and maximise available opportunities. With over 200 staff, we have a strong team ethic but always recognise the individual contributions to the team's performance. That's why we make a great investment in individual career development and help you maximise your potential. So why not start your career with James Cowper Kreston?
Company benefits
* Paid time off for study, college, and exams
* 23 days annual holiday, plus birthday as an extra day off
* Flexible benefits scheme including cycle to work and dental insurance
* Health cash plan to reimburse minor medical costs
After this apprenticeship
* After achieving the AAT qualification you can go on to study either ACA or ACCA
* Plus progression to Audit Senior, then Manager and potentially follow a route all the way to being a Partner in the firm
Contact Information
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
James Cowper Kreston
Sarah Pearce
spearce@jamescowper.co.uk
07388 945384
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC1000291269.
Application Instructions
To apply, follow the link and complete our quick and easy online application form. Successful applicants will be invited to one of our Assessment Days where you will undertake various activities individually and in a group with other candidates. If you impress us at the Assessment Day, we will then invite you to join our new intake of students starting in late August. #J-18808-Ljbffr