Audit Apprenticeship (AAT) – Media sector - March 2027

Audit Apprenticeship (AAT Level 4)

Start Date: 3rd March 2027

At Moore Kingston Smith, we believe in the potential of people to make a positive impact, fuelled by the power of genuine understanding.

As an accredited training firm, we’re committed to providing first-class professional development in a supportive and friendly environment. Through our Level 4 Audit Apprenticeship, you will gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills, and build the foundation for a successful career in audit. You will work with a wide range of businesses across the media and entertainment sector, delivering exceptional client service while earning a Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).

Our Advice, Audit & Accounts team has broad experience across audit, accounts, tax, and other advisory services, enabling cross-discipline solutions for clients. Within this department and our West End office, we have over 125 specialists who proactively support businesses across media services, TV and film, theatre, and video gaming.

Role Overview

From the outset, you will work with our clients—choosing Moore Kingston Smith because we understand them so well. You will get to know their businesses, uncover the obstacles they face, and become familiar with their sectors. The experience is varied: some projects last a few days, while others last a few weeks.

You will be encouraged to take responsibility early on and to get to grips with all aspects of the role and the audit process. While you will predominantly work on clients within the media and entertainment sector, you will also gain exposure to other teams and sectors.

How We Work

As a trainee, you’ll gain the most from your programme by being immersed in the office environment, working alongside colleagues and learning through observation. While there is some flexibility depending on office and team requirements, trainees should generally expect to be in the office on most working days. Your team will provide specific guidance on attendance expectations when you join.

Travel to, and attendance at, client sites is also an essential requirement of the position.

Key Responsibilities (First 12 Months)

• Develop a strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and auditing guidelines.
• Attend client offices and represent the firm professionally as part of the audit team.
• Assist in planning audits, including reviewing prior year information and preparing lead schedules.
• Perform audit testing on key financial areas such as income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
• Check the accuracy of financial schedules and ensure figures agree with supporting records.
• Prepare financial statements in line with relevant standards and legal requirements.
• Draft corporation tax computations and support tax-related audit procedures.
• Liaise with clients to gather documentation, clarify queries, and support audit progress.
• Maintain accurate and well-organised working papers in line with internal procedures.
• Review and update client data in accounting and tax software systems.
• Identify and suggest improvements to client systems and internal processes.
• Support the preparation of audit close-out meeting materials and discussion points.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams, including technical and tax departments.
• Help manage client expectations and meet deadlines throughout the audit process.

As you develop experience and confidence, you will take more ownership of audit sections and communicate more directly with clients. You will also begin mentoring newer team members, contribute to planning discussions, and handle more complex technical areas.

Progression

As you near completion of the AAT apprenticeship, you will be considered for progression onto the Association of Chartered Accountants (ACA) pathway, which—after a further 2 years of study—would lead to becoming a fully qualified Chartered Accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales (ICAEW).

We have clear progression routes, and many partners started out as trainees here, progressing through hard work, commitment, and drive into leadership roles.

What This Means for You

• You will complete 10 AAT exams across key areas such as bookkeeping, financial statements and tax.
• You will gain relevant work experience, supported by on-the-job learning and guidance from your manager.
• You will develop key professional skills through structured training and development.
• You will be accountable for maintaining your apprenticeship file.
• You will follow a planned schedule of work and study, with regular revision and training sessions leading up to key exams during the year.

Support Provided

• In-person tuition with our trusted training provider during set study blocks.
• Paid study leave.
• Ongoing support from a Buddy, Training Manager, and Training Partner, with regular feedback and development reviews.
• Access to wellbeing resources and a supportive network to help you thrive.

Training Programme and Eligibility

The AAT training programme is open to students from a range of backgrounds, whether straight out of college, or someone looking for a career change or return to work. It does not require you to have a university degree.

You will be provided with training and support throughout your career with us. The AAT qualification pathway has a structured study and exam programme so you don’t need to have prior technical knowledge or experience.

We do look for the following:

• A clear motivation to pursue a career in audit and to work with our media clients, supported by an understanding of the AAT qualification and the role auditors play in supporting businesses.
• Enthusiasm for building strong relationships and collaborating with clients and colleagues, with close support from your manager.
• A proactive, results-driven attitude, ensuring excellent client service and a commitment to delivering high-quality work with integrity and professionalism.
• A dedication to ethical standards, ensuring your work aligns with professional guidelines and best practices.
• Strong commitment and reliability, enabling you to balance your studies and exams (with paid study leave) alongside your full-time role and responsibilities.
• A growth mindset and adaptable approach, with a willingness to continuously acquire new skills and knowledge, supported by your manager, learning coach, and dedicated early talent team.
• A commitment to understanding, built on respect, collaboration, and active listening.
• In order to be eligible for the programme, you will also need:
• Achieved a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points from three A Levels (or equivalent qualifications), excluding any Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
• This role is for those without a degree. If you have a degree, please apply for one of our graduate programmes.
• To be permitted to work in the UK for at least 2 years from the start date of the programme.