Job description
What does it mean to be a chartered accountant?
Is it helping businesses make crucial decisions? Is it having a pivotal role and being at the forefront of an industry where your passion lies? Building sustainable change from the inside out? It’s all of it. Chartered accountants create, shape and build strong economies and communities globally.
The ACA is our globally recognised chartered accountancy qualification. It’s designed to provide trainees with the professional skills and strategic insight they'll need to make a real impact.
As a school leaver, the most common routes to studying the ACA is via an ICAEW apprenticeship or through a training agreement.
Find out more about studying the ACA straight from school.
The ACA explained
The ACA offers a structured training and development programme with four integrated elements. Emphasising professional development and nurturing skills, the qualification covers far more than technical accountancy. It’s designed to develop leadership potential, and its content is reviewed annually to make sure trainees are kept informed about the latest developments in finance, accounting, and business. Here’s what ACA students will be doing:
- Practical Work Experience
They need to record 450 days of relevant ‘on-the-job’ work experience during their period of approved training. If they have completed an internship or placement year with one of our authorised employers, they may be able to count up to 12 months’ experience towards their ACA training.
- Ethics and Professional Curiosity
Ethics and professional curiosity are an essential part of being a chartered accountant. Trainees will follow a structured programme to make sure they know how to apply them – focusing on areas such as integrity, objectivity, and independence.
- Accountancy, Finance, and Business Modules
There are 15 modules, each with its own computer-based exam. These modules are staged across three levels: the first introduces trainees to core concepts; the last two build on their growing technical knowledge and experience.
- Professional Development
Demonstrate their competence in seven key professional skills (such as communication, teamwork, and decision-making) by providing examples from their work experience.
Training
Entry requirements can vary between employers, so please check individual training vacancy listings. GCSE and UCAS points result requirements vary, however most employers will expect a at least three A*-C grades.
Once qualified ICAEW Chartered Accountants can go into a wide range of career specialisms and industries, enabling you to align your passions and interests to your career in chartered accountancy.
Ready to get started? Find your trainee role today and kick-start a dynamic career in chartered accountancy.
Additional job details
- Location
- UK wide
- Europe
- Ireland
- Worldwide
- Salary
- Competitive salary
- Contract, dates and working times
Full-time
How to apply
To get started you must find and apply for a trainee or apprentice role with an ICAEW Authorised Training Employer. Search and apply for our latest trainee vacancies.
Click Apply to start your application now. This job will be available on Prospects until 16 September 2025
Don't forget to mention Prospects to employers when you contact them.
Closing date: Continuous recruitment