The Opportunity

Do you want to pursue a career in accountancy and have the opportunity to gain practical hands on experience at the same time as training? Are you unsure about going to University and want to enter into the workplace while continuing to develop your skills and earning potential?   

With a start date in summer 2026, we have an exciting opportunity to join our firm as an apprentice working within the  Accounting Solutions Department in our St Albans office.

We can offer you;

  • Varied practical on-the job training – learning the fundamentals of accounting and taking on more responsibility alongside formal and on-the-job training.
  • Study support: Our apprentices work towards nationally recognised professional qualification with the Association of Accountancy Technicians (AAT).
  • Friendly and knowledgeable team: Working with our experienced and supportive team, you will quickly develop your skills to become an integral part of Rayner Essex. 

Key Responsibilities

Our Accounting Solutions Department provides a wide range of services to clients, including accounts preparation, bookkeeping and the production of management accounts and information.  The main duties for this position will involve working on the books and records of clients. This will involve processing transactions from documents provided by the client and reconciling control accounts, including Bank, Sales ledger, Purchase ledger and VAT.  You will also learn to use a variety of accounting IT packages. 

Training and Support

We work with an established training provider to maximise your ability to successfully pass your exams.  Our apprentices work towards AAT Level 3 and 4 Diploma in Accounting.  All qualification fees are paid for. 

We will give you a balance of practical experience and structured theoretical training to allow you to quickly develop your skills and be a meaningful part of our team.  

What we are looking for?

We are looking for apprentices who are highly motivated and have a desire to learn, along with excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.  In order to apply you should have the following:

  • Five GCSE’s (or equivalent) at grade 4 or above (including at least grade 5 in Maths and English). 
  • Two A level’s (or equivalent) at grade C or above (excluding general studies) will be an advantage but are not essential – please state predicted/ expected grades if applicable.
  • Good keyboard skills and a working knowledge of MS Office, including Word and Excel.
  • Previous work experience is an advantage.

Meet Laila Khan, an accounting apprentice…

“Since joining, I’ve felt incredibly supported by the Firm – especially while completing my AAT qualification. I’m part of a team of likeminded individuals who are always ready to offer guidance and training and help without judgement. There’s a great balance between work and study, which has enabled me to apply my learning into practice in real time, with interest.”

To find out more about joining Rayner Essex as an Accounting Apprentice, read ‘Your Guide to Becoming an Accounting Apprentice’.