Graduate Programme
Graduate opportunities at Armstrong Watson
Start your journey with a top Independent UK Firm.
Your Future, Our Investment.
At Armstrong Watson your career is our priority, and we’re with you every step of the way. If you’re ready to launch your career and gain a globally respected qualification, we’re ready to invest in your future.
Our graduate programme is a structured, supportive three-year journey designed to help you qualify as a Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser—two of the most sought-after professional qualifications in the UK and beyond.
From day one, you’ll work with real businesses, making a genuine impact while being supported by mentors, coaches, and a dedicated counsellor every step of the way.
You won’t just be watching from the side lines; you’ll be working with real businesses from day one, supported by mentors and dedicated coaches to guide you every step of the way.
Your Training
Becoming a Chartered Accountant or Tax Adviser takes dedication, and we’ll be with you all the way. You’ll combine practical experience in one of our offices with study through leading tuition providers.
For Accountancy and Audit, you will work toward the Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) and Chartered Accountant (CA) qualifications. Our Tax trainees study for the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) and Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualifications.
Alongside technical training, you’ll complete our specialist development programme to build the skills needed to deliver exceptional client service. You’ll gain experience across Audit & Assurance or Tax Consultancy, plus exposure to service lines such as Accounting & Business Services, Restructuring & Insolvency, Financial Planning, and Corporate Finance.
At the end of the programme, you’ll hold a globally recognised qualification, opening doors across practice, business, and the public sector.
What we look for
We’re looking for talented individuals who want to be part of our journey to become the best Accounting & Financial Advisory firm to deal with, delivering the best client experience in the United Kingdom.
You will be friendly, confident and approachable, with strong communication skills to help support and inspire our other trainees and your fellow peer group.
You’ll help our clients to address the issues that face them and provide sound business advice to help them grow. We seek candidates who are team players, motivated to succeed with a positive attitude and strong work ethic. This is an exciting opportunity with stimulating challenges and rewarding career development opportunities.
What our colleagues say
We're committed to delivering the best client experience. Hear from those who have worked with us and discover how we've helped them achieve their goals.
Grace Mulhern
Audit & Assurance Assistant
The Armstrong Watson Graduate Scheme is an excellent opportunity for any graduate to undertake, and I feel genuinely supported in both my academic studies and professional development. I am extremely appreciative to have been given this opportunity, as it has allowed me to grow not only in my career but also personally.
Bethany Jackson
Business Services Senior
Over the past six and a half years I’ve been supported every step of the way and been provided with many opportunities to develop and grow in my career in accountancy, gaining skills for life.
Abigail Graham
Business Services Manager
I joined Armstrong Watson straight after completing my A Levels, starting my career as an Accounts Assistant Trainee in 2015. Over the next three years, I completed my AAT qualification before progressing on to study for my ACA in 2018 while working within the audit team. After qualifying, I returned to Business Services as an Assistant Manager and was promoted to Manager in 2025. I also relocated from the Carlisle office to the Kendal office in May 2025, a move I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.
Looking back, the highlight of my journey so far has been the incredible colleagues I’ve worked with. The support, encouragement, and friendships I’ve built over the years have made a huge difference in my development; both through my AAT and ACA studies and throughout my career.
What you’ll need to join us:
A 2:1 degree (achieved or predicted) in any discipline, or full AAT Level 4 qualification. (A 2:2 degree may be considered depending on subject).
At least 7 GCSEs at Grade 5 (C) or above (including Maths, English, and one Science).
Minimum of 96 UCAS points (A Level or equivalent).
Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Chartered Accountancy Graduate Scheme Brochure
To find out more about our Chartered Accountancy Graduate Scheme, please read our Chartered Accountancy Graduate Scheme Brochure
