Assistant Accountant Apprentice

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a Level 2 qualification, looking to start a career in finance and accounting within a professional legal firm. You will work with an experienced team, gaining practical experience. The role will involve supporting the day-to-day activities and developing your own knowledge.

What you'll do

This position is a great opportunity for someone with a Level 2 qualification with no prior business experience. Full training and support will be provided to the right person who is enthusiastic about learning and developing within the role

As an Accounts Apprentice, your duties will include:

• Assist with the investigation of, and response to, financial information queries
• Record and analyse financial data using the organisation's standard tools and processes
• Apply double entry bookkeeping and accounting standards to process financial documents, generate financial statements, and report financial information to users of accounts
• Assist with production of accurate financial information for the preparation of accounts
• Reconcile financial data, such as preparation of reconciliations or review of reconciliations
• Investigate, resolve, or escalate transactional queries and errors within their remit as appropriate
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders
• Communicate financial information in a way that non-finance stakeholders can interpret and understand
• Utilise digital skills to present key financial information using finance and accounting software and applications
• Use software packages to assist with basic accounting tasks in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data
• Communicate using a range of approaches and media, with an understanding of the risks and benefits to the business of social media and other digital applications
• Work as part of the wider McGarry Law team and providing a helpful and professional service

As your knowledge and confidence develop, you will be given the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities and learn more about the wider finance function.

Training

• AAT Certificate in accounting (Level 3) - 4 days with employer and day release at College
• Location – McGarry and Co, 21 Galgate, Barnard Castle DL12 8EQ
• Working 5 days per week inclusive of 1 day release for study at Darlington College

https://skillsengland.education.gov.uk/apprenticeships/st0002-v2-0

After the apprenticeship

There may be an opportunity to secure a long term position after successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Skills

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Team working
• Keen to learn
• Manage workload
• Concern for accuracy
• Reliable
• Respect confidentiality
• Positive
• Professional
• Approachable

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSE, Maths and English (grade 4/C)
• Essential: L2 Accounts or Finance Assistant, Accounting (grade Level 2)

Things to consider

• You will already hold a Level 2 Accounting qualification.
• You will complete a Level 3 Accounting apprenticeship, combining workplace experience with structured off-the-job training. You will develop practical skills in areas including bookkeeping, financial records, reconciliations, financial transactions, accounting software, data security and professional standards.
• The successful candidate will receive support from both McGarry Law and their apprenticeship training provider throughout the programme.
• Please note that in line with UK apprenticeship regulations, you must have a valid and eligible residency status and the right to work in England. This should cover the entire expected term of learning and residency should be held for a minimum of 3 years, exceptions may apply please see Apprenticeship funding rules for full guidance..

About the employer

• McGarry and Co is an expanding full-service rural law firm with offices across the North of England. The firm provides a wide range of legal services and places a strong emphasis on providing clients with professional, practical and personal advice.
• You will be joining a professional but friendly team where you will have the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and develop valuable skills for a career in finance.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Assistant accountant (level 3), Legal, finance and accounting
• Apprenticeship level: Advanced (level 3)
• Training provider: DARLINGTON COLLEGE
• Expected duration: 1 Year 3 Months
• Hours: 37.5 hours a week. Working week: Monday to Friday 8:45am-5pm with day release to College

This apprenticeship is 15 months plus 3 months for Apprenticeship Assessment and gateway

• Start date: 26 October 2026
• Positions available: 1
• Wage: £15,600 a year