ACA Trainee - 2026

ACA Trainee – Graduate & School Leaver Opportunities Offices in Chelmsford, Basildon & Southend | Full-time | ACA Qualification Driving licence preferred Your future in accountancy starts here – and it’s more than just a training contract. At Rickard Luckin, we’re proud of our reputation as one of Essex’s leading accountancy firms, built on our values of being Passionate, Personal and Professional. We’re looking for ambitious and curious individuals, whether you’re a recent graduate or an A-Level school leaver, to join our ACA Trainee Programme and start your journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant. Our structured programme combines technical training, real client work and personal development. You’ll rotate through our specialist teams, work with a wide range of clients, and study towards your ACA qualification with support at every step. Entry Requirements (predicted grades):For School Leavers:GCSE: Grade A (or Level 7) in English and MathsA-Levels: 120 UCAS points at A2 (300 under the previous system), excluding General StudiesFor Graduates:Meet the above A-Level requirementsAchieved (or predicted) minimum 2:1 degree in any discipline What you’ll be doing:Prepare financial statements and working paper files for a wide variety of clientsSupport audits from planning through to completion, including performing testing and gathering evidenceGain exposure to corporate and personal tax processesBuild strong relationships with colleagues and clients through clear communicationBalance client work with professional study, working closely with your manager and mentorUse our RLDA (Rickard Luckin Development Academy) and learning platforms to enhance your technical and soft skillsKeep accurate records to support your ACA qualification and apprenticeship requirements Why Rickard Luckin?Personal development: We’ll support you every step of the way. From your first exam through to your first client meeting and beyondCulture-led: We care about your wellbeing, growth and individuality. We’re looking for culture add, not just culture fitSupportive rotations: Rotate through our core teams to help you decide where your strengths and interests lieLong term progression: Many of our previous trainees have gone on to become senior leaders within the firmInclusive and fair hiring: Our assessments are designed to give everyone an equal opportunity to shine The Recruitment Process:1st Stage – Initial Interview30-minute video interview with our Talent Acquisition LeadFocus: Who you are, our values and how we’ll grow together2nd Stage – Assessment & Colour Profile TestingTwo-hour online assessment and working styles profileHelps us understand how you work bestFinal Stage – In-Person Business PresentationMeet with one of our Client Service Directors and our HR Business Partner for TraineesPrepare a SWOT analysis on a company of your choice, with guidance provided Next StepsTo apply, please send your CV and confirm that you meet the entry criteria. If you have any questions or need adjustments during the process, we’re here to help. Join a firm where your future is personal.We look forward to meeting the next generation of passionate professionals.Please note, we’ll begin contacting candidates towards the end of 2025.