Fiander Tovell LLP School Leavers Recruitment Programme

Who is this for?

It used to be a simple choice: go to university and study for a degree or draw a line at A-Levels and get yourself a job.

Both routes provide you the opportunity for challenging and varied experiences, but wouldn’t it be great if you could have the opportunity for immediate income and study for further qualifications? Fiander Tovell’s training scheme offers just that.  We recognise that many school leavers now want to get their career underway immediately, but don’t want to miss out on study for formal qualifications.  As a recognised AAT and ACA training office, we are able to offer the chance to combine work with study.

Success in our training programme leads to a qualification initially as an Accounting Technician and potentially as a Chartered Accountant.  You will have a bright career ahead of you with ongoing opportunities to learn and progress. The more you show us what you’re made of, the further you could go.

Two of our current partners and two of our current associates came through the training programme that we offer as well as a significant number of current manager level staff.  Three former trainees are finance directors of major local businesses; others are senior managers and partners in other major accountancy practices in the area.

What we offer

We offer the completion of a nationally recognised accounting qualifications alongside full-time work based learning.

The AAT accounting qualification is based on practical, real-world accounting knowledge you can put to use from day one.  Typically taking two years, it combines work based learning with college based modules and study leave.

Depending on your progression then we would offer the opportunity to study for the ACA qualification to gain chartered accountant status.  The ACA allows students to combine practical experience with technical knowledge and exams.

What are we looking for?

The key to our training programme is that it really is most importantly a development programme.   This means that we are not looking for those candidates with years of experience, instead we look for those with the potential to be become a successful member of our team.

You will need to have a record which demonstrates a sound level of aptitude at numeracy and literacy and have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs grade A – C, including Maths and English grade B or above. Ideally you will be studying for A levels or equivalent (preferably in Maths, Accounting, Sciences or business related subjects) although this is not mandatory.

For us, it is not just about what you have studied and your grades.  The successful applicants will be intelligent, articulate and personable and a significant part of their role will involve communication with other members of staff and clients.  They should enjoy working as part of a team, but demonstrate the ability to work and think independently.  They should be prepared to accept responsibility and show a commitment to their career.

FAQs

How do I apply?
Write to us with a CV and covering letter, explaining why you are interested in a career in accountancy and what skills you have to offer. Address your e-mails to Fiona Harwood and send them to fionaharwood@fiandertovell.co.uk.

If my application is successful, when will I start?
New Trainees typically start in the August after they complete their exams.

How will I be supported?
You will be fully supported during your time on the programme. Colleagues, Managers and Partners all have a role to play in supporting our trainees through their development.

What hours will I be working?
Our normal office hours are 9- 5, Monday to Friday with an hour for lunch.

Where will I be based?
Our team is based in our offices in Southampton.  Please be aware that you will need to be flexible to travel to client’s premises. 

How do you select your successful candidates?
Each year we receive a very high volume of applications.  Initially, we shortlist for interview on the basis of your CV and covering letter, so make sure that these are clear, accurate and really do a good job of presenting you at your best.  We usually have a two stage interview process and you may also be asked to undertake numeracy and literacy tests.

Important dates
Applications for 2012 are now closed
Applications for 2013 will open in December 2012, with interviews taking place in April 2013.