Kirk Rice LLP

Here at Kirk Rice LLP, we provide accountancy, audit, tax and financial planning services for both businesses and individuals. Recognised as one of the 50+50 top accountancy firms in the UK, we currently employ over 100 employees and have 14 Partners, based across our offices in the Thames Valley, North Hampshire and South West London.

Our people are what make us, and we pride ourselves on our values of providing a quality service, making a positive difference and team spirit. We are looking for individuals who are ambitious, adaptable, caring, empathetic, and committed to learning and professional development, to help us achieve our vision of being the firm of choice in region.

We offer a diverse, motivating and fun place to work, celebrating when we have great days, and supporting each other when we have harder days.

The Programme

Are you looking for a career in accounting, finance, audit or tax? Perhaps you are considering a career change, or you are looking for a practical alternative to postgraduate study, learning through real work experience, whilst avoiding further student debt. Then this programme might be for you.

Our graduate trainee programme is a practical, work-based route to becoming a fully qualified professional accountant. It is designed for graduates and allows you to earn a salary while studying for a recognised professional accountancy qualification.

You do not need a degree in accounting or finance to apply. Graduates from any degree background are welcome. Full training and structured support will be provided throughout the programme.

As an Associate Accountant, you will study for your ACA (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales - ICAEW) qualification while working.

How the Graduate Trainee Programme Works

As an Associate Accountant, you will:

• Work and gain valuable hands-on experience in areas such as accounting, finance, audit, and taxation
• Study for ACA exams with the support of our training provider, and paid study leave to attend classes
• Apply what you learn directly to real business situations

This combination of work and study helps you build both technical expertise and professional skills, preparing you for a long-term career in accounting and finance.

Key Benefits

• Earn while you learn - continue working while studying
• Globally recognised qualification – ACA (ICAEW)
• Fast-track route for graduates - build on your existing degree
• Strong career progression - clear route to becoming a chartered accountant
• Real work experience - highly valued by employers

Summary

The graduate trainee programme is a practical, accessible alternative to full-time postgraduate study. While it is not a degree, it leads to a Level 7 qualification equivalent to a master’s degree through completion of the ACA professional qualification.

It combines paid work, professional study, and real-world experience, making it an excellent pathway into the accounting profession for graduates who want to build a successful career in finance and accounting without taking on further student debt.

If this sounds like a role that would be suitable for you, we would encourage you to apply today by completing our Graduate Application Form 2026 and sending your CV to EarlyCareers@kirkrice.co.uk.