Professional trainees:
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a degree to become an accountant?
Trainees don't just come from university post graduation, they also come straight from school after GCSEs or A’ levels. We encourage a wide range of applicants and tailor your professional training accordingly.
School leavers usually study first for the AAT qualification; (Association of Accounting Technicians) and may progress to study for their ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and become fully qualified.
Graduates can study with the ACA (Association of Chartered Accountants) or ACCA to become either chartered or certified accountants.
Do you specify a degree discipline or grade?
We’re looking for a strong academic background rather than a specific degree subject. It’s important that you can demonstrate the ability to study, as the route to professional qualification will involve significant commitment. Although we don’t specify a degree subject, we would prefer a grade of 2:1 or above.
If you’re a school leaver, we are looking for good grades at GCSE level, particularly in Maths and English language. A levels will be an advantage but we don’t specify particular disciplines.
Where can I find more information with regard to professional qualifications?
You can find all you need to know about training qualifications at www.acca.org.uk, www.icaew.co.uk and www.aat.co.uk.
How do I apply?
By completing an application form which you can download by clicking here, printing it off, completing it and posting it back to our HR Manager, Keith Boothroyd.
Then, assuming that we have a vacancy and that you meet our criteria, we will invite you to attend an initial interview. We may carry out some practical, work-based tests depending upon the nature of the position you’re applying for and there will be a final interview with at least one of our partners.
Will Cassons support my training?
Yes, we actively encourage all our staff to continue their training and will provide you with on the job training, tailored courses and a study package to support your professional studies (in the shape of course funding and study leave). We will also assign a mentor to help guide and support you all the way.
We are a recognised Investors in People employer and your personal and professional development are important to us.
We help you broaden your technical knowledge and ensure you have the relevant IT skills to meet the current and future needs of the business.
What are the opportunities for promotion?
Excellent - many of our partners started with Cassons as trainees. We believe in promotion from within wherever possible and advertise all vacancies internally. Cassons operates as a meritocracy and the opportunities are there for the taking.
How will I know how I’m doing?
All new starters are given a review after 3 months in order to agree a training plan and objectives for the future. You will also have a performance and development review on an annual basis to review your work, plan for the future and a training strategy to get you there. We try to give informal feedback on a regular basis and your mentor will be available to give you all the guidance and support you need.
What kind of social activities do you have?
When work is over, we have a range of social events; football, golf, quiz nights and ten pin bowling to name a few. We want you to enjoy working as part of our team and we host a variety of events throughout the year including a summer ball and Christmas parties.
Is Cassons a good company to work for?
We think so! Our salary structures are competitive and reviewed on a regular basis and our benefits package includes private health care and pension after a qualifying period. We also recognise the need for a healthy balance between work and family life with initiatives such as ‘summertime special’ flexible working.
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