Home > About > Careers > Trainee Accountant – Audit (School Leaver) – AAT – January 2027

Trainee Accountant - Audit (School Leaver) - AAT - January 2027.

Cambridge | 5th September 2025

Find out more about this opportunity

Ready to kickstart your career in accountancy? Join PEM, the largest independent accountancy firm in Cambridge, as a Trainee Accountant in our Audit team, starting in January 2027! This is your chance to earn, learn, and build a successful career in a supportive, friendly, and forward-thinking environment.

As part of our four-year apprenticeship programme, you’ll start with your AAT qualification and progress to ACA, gaining Chartered Accountant (ICAEW) status. From day one, you’ll work with a wide range of clients across different sectors, helping with audits, accounts preparation, and tax computations—developing real-world experience that sets you apart.

What’s in it for you?

Fully funded AAT and ACA study package, with paid study leave
Competitive salary and bonuses for first-time exam passes
25 days’ holiday plus your birthday off
Enhanced pension, free parking, and supported railcards
Fun social events, flexible benefits, and a modern, inclusive workplace.

Take a look at our benefits

What we’re looking for:

At least 112 UCAS points (from A Levels in relevant subjects)
Strong GCSE results
Great communication skills and a keen eye for detail
A positive attitude and willingness to learn.

If you’re leaving school this year and want to start your career with an ambitious, supportive firm—this is your opportunity. Apply now to join our January 2027 intake and begin your journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant with PEM!

Apply now

Ready to launch your career?

Apply now!

Hear from our team

"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."

Jemma Gibbons-Riddell, Partner

"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

Other jobs available

Trainee Accountant – Virtual Finance Office (VFO) (School Leaver) – AAT/ACCA

Launch your career in finance with a Trainee Accountant role in PEM’s Virtual Finance Office (VFO), working with real clients and learning how businesses run behind the scenes.

You’ll gain hands-on experience in bookkeeping, data entry and financial reporting while studying towards your ACCA qualification with a fully funded study package and first-time exam pass bonuses.

This school leaver role is perfect if you’re curious, detail-focused and ready to make an impact from day one; you’ll need at least 112 UCAS points (or a 2:2 degree) and strong GCSEs. Enjoy a market-leading salary, 25 days’ holiday plus birthday leave, enhanced pension, free onsite parking, social events and flexible benefits such as GymFlex and shopping discounts.

Trainee Accountant – Accounts (School Leaver) – AAT

Launch your career as a Trainee Accountant at PEM, Cambridge’s largest independent accountancy firm. As part of our thriving Accounts team, you’ll make an immediate impact working on real client projects, tackling business challenges, and seeing your ideas valued from day one. Our early years programme empowers you to learn alongside industry leaders and experienced mentors, gaining hands-on experience and expert guidance as you work toward becoming an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. We provide full exam support and tailor your development to help you thrive.

At PEM, you’re never just a number. You’ll be part of a collaborative, ambitious team based in the heart of Cambridge, with access to vibrant social events, exclusive networking opportunities, and a clear path for progression.

Ready to shape the future of accountancy? Apply today and launch your career with PEM.