Early careers at Carpenter Box
Carpenter Box is proud to be part of the Sumer Group – one of the UK’s fastest-growing accountancy practices. Together, we’re creating brighter futures for our people, our clients, and our communities.
Start your career at Carpenter Box
Carpenter Box is an award-winning Chartered Accountants, Chartered Tax
Advisers and Business Consultants with a reputation for innovation and
excellence.
We’re now inviting applications for our Early Careers Trainee Programme,
designed for those ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in
accountancy. Whether your passion lies in Audit, Accounts or Tax, you’ll
gain the skills, qualifications and experience to become a fully qualified
professional, supported every step of the way.
Applications close on Tuesday 25 November 2025.
What’s in it for you?
What do you need to apply?
You will have a strong academic history shown in either your A level results, or in your AAT Level 3 or 4 or from your university degree (in any subject). You will also have excellent attention to detail and quick problem-solving abilities. You would be motivated to provide an excellent service to clients, by working in a team and show your initiative. You will also have a professional approach and forward-thinking attitude.
What do we offer?
We offer applicants training contracts where you learn and gain valuable experience in the financial services sector. Alongside on-the-job training, our trainees are provided with exclusive study and exam learning days. They are supported with materials from a leading training provider, often under an apprenticeship. With hard work and commitment, this results in a nationally recognised qualification.
Throughout your trainee journey, you will have regular catch-up and support meetings with our internal training team and our Training Director.
Your mentor will monitor your progress and identify any additional training needs you may have and will also co-ordinate any additional exam support that you may require.
Opportunities
Opportunities
We have various opportunities in the following departments:
- Tax: Trainees in our Tax Services Group will gain tax experience by working with our Advisory Team supporting businesses, as well as Private Client working with families and individuals. You will gain relevant experience while studying towards the ATT and CTA qualifications.
- Audit: Trainee accountants in our Assurance and Advisory Group work on external audits, checking our clients present the information about their financial position in a way that is true and fair. You will gain relevant experience while studying towards either the ACA or ACCA qualifications, while on an apprenticeship scheme.
- Business: Trainee accountants in our Business Services Group help businesses to obtain a thorough understanding of their financial position. You will gain relevant experience while studying towards either the ACA or ACCA qualifications, while on an apprenticeship scheme.
- StarBox: Trainee accountants in our StarBox Services group provide accountancy and business advice services for content creators. You will gain relevant experience while studying towards either the ACA or ACCA qualifications, while on an apprenticeship scheme.
- Joint pathway: We also offer the opportunity for some Trainees work towards a dual qualification. You will start your journey in Assurance and Advisory or Business Services for a couple of years before moving into Tax Services. You will study an apprenticeship scheme via the ACA/CTA joint programme.
Each day is different and brings new challenges, whether it be learning how to do your first accounts preparation exercise or corporation tax computation; preparing projections for a client’s business plan; or meeting a client to discuss their business and give tax planning advice.
Following your training
Following your training
At the end of the training contract, some of our newly qualified accountants prefer to continue within their current department, while others may move into a different discipline. Whatever the decision, Carpenter Box offers education and support throughout your journey.
What are the benefits?
Employee Benefits
✅ A full-time training contract
✅ Paid study and exam leave
✅ Annual salary review and salary increase after exam passes and when you become part qualified
✅ Apprenticeship to support your training to become ACCA or ACA qualified
✅ Paid overtime or time off in lieu
✅ Competitive holiday entitlement plus bank holidays
✅ Lifestyle Hub with access to great discounts
✅ Employee Assistance Program with additional wellbeing benefits
✅ Employee Referral Program
✅ Flexible and hybrid working after a qualifying period
✅ Modern office environment with breakout areas with coffee machines
✅ Paid time off to support the local community as part of our CSR policy
✅ Relaxed Dress Code
✅ Opportunity to join the WPA Cash Plan scheme after 6 months employment with the Firm
✅ Death in Service and associated benefits
How will you develop?
Training and Development
We provide an excellent support package and opportunities to develop and progress your skills and knowledge during your training program.
Our training program will ensure you have the practical, technical and business advisory skills to allow you to excel in your training contract and ensure you are equipped with all the necessary skills needed to be successful in your future career.
Variety
Variety
Our trainees are given the opportunity to work with a variety of clients, ranging from the smallest of sole traders and charities to major family-owned companies and not-for-profit organisations.
Job opportunities
Don't worry if you don't see any roles you want to apply for now. Register your interest to allow us to contact you when a suitable role meeting your criteria comes along.
Role Overview
We have various opportunities in the following departments. They are:
- Tax Trainees in our Tax Services Group where you will gain tax experience by working with our Advisory Team as well as Private Clients. You will gain relevant experience while studying towards the ATT and CTA joint pathway.
- Trainee Accountants in our Assurance and Advisory Group who check our clients present the information about their financial position in a way that is true and fair. You will gain relevant experience while studying on an apprenticeship scheme towards either ACA or ACCA.
- Trainee Accountants in our Business Services Group who help businesses to obtain a thorough understanding of their financial position. You will gain relevant experience while studying on an apprenticeship scheme towards either ACA or ACCA.
- Trainee Accountants in our StarBox Services Group who help businesses to obtain a thorough understanding of their financial position. You will gain relevant experience while studying on an apprenticeship scheme for either ACA or ACCA.
Each day is different and brings new challenges, whether it be: learning how to do your first accounts preparation exercise or corporation tax computation; preparing projections for a client’s business plan; or meeting a client to discuss their business
and give tax planning advice.
and give tax planning advice.
Our selection process
1. CV Review
2. Online testing via our partner CandiTech (behavioural, numerical and comprehension)
3. Assessment Centre & Individual Interview
4. Offer
Our values
WE SHINE TOGETHER
We celebrate everyone’s individuality and work as one team.
WE DO THE RIGHT THING
We act with kindness, fairness and integrity in everything we do.
WE MAKE IT COUNT
We’re quietly brave as we make a difference, every day, for our clients and communities.
Entry Criteria
We look for people who have a strong A-Level or equivalent academic history, including a minimum of a Grade C/5 in English and B/6 in Maths at GCSE level (or equivalent).
This criteria has been set to select candidates who’ll be able to undertake professional qualifications alongside developing in their role.
What is it like to work at Carpenter Box?
Imagine yourself at Carpenter Box
FAQs
What is the entry criteria for the Sumer Early Careers Programme?
As this role involves studying for professional qualifications, we’re seeking candidates with a strong A-Level or equivalent academic history, including a minimum of a Grade C/5 in English and B/6 in Maths at GCSE level (or equivalent). All applicants must already have the permanent right to work in the UK, this programme is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
What is the application process for the Sumer Early Careers Programme?
Our application process has three stages:
- Stage 1: Complete the online application form with your basic information, upload your CV, and provide answers to our initial questions.
- Stage 2: We’ll review your application and if shortlisted, you'll be invited to complete an online assessment via our online platform, Canditech. You can expect some video questions, numeracy and comprehension tests.
- Stage 3: Successful candidates will be invited to attend an in-person assessment centre for some collaborative task-based exercises and interviews.
Do I need to be a school leaver or graduate to apply?
No, absolutely not! We encourage school leavers, graduates and those looking for a change of career. As long as you want to start your journey in our industry, and meet the entry criteria we want to hear from you!
What if I need some adjustments to the recruitment process?
Everyone is unique and we understand that each individual may have distinct needs to showcase their best selves . Our commitment is to offer personalised support, so please let us know in your application how we can support you. Adjustments may include changes such as allowing extra time for tasks, or ensuring accessibility for mobility needs.
When can I apply?
Applications for our trainee positions typically open in the autumn each year, with further recruitment windows in the spring
What if I can’t attend the dates of the assessment centre?
We understand these dates won’t be suitable for everyone, however open roles will be prioritised for those who are able to attend the dates we’re providing. If you’re unable to attend we will keep your application on file and should future assessment centres be held we will be sure to reach out to see if you can attend one of these instead.
What if I’ve missed the deadline for applications this year?
Please keep a look out on our website in case we have any further opportunities arise this year. Otherwise, you can register your interest for next year via here.
If I’m unsuccessful, when can I reapply?
If you haven’t passed this time you will need to wait six months before being able to retake the test. You are welcome to apply to multiple firms dependant on your location requirements.
When will I start if I’m successful?
Our intake joins us in late August, but don’t worry, we’lll make sure you have regular contact between accepting our offer and you joining us!
Do I need to have studied any particular subjects or a specific degree to be considered?
A strong academic history is part of our entry criteria but we don’t look for specific subjects. We’re passionate about finding the right talent that we can support to build and grow throughout a career with us.
What training and support will be available?
We partner with a leading training provider who will support you through your technical qualification. In addition to this, you will be enrolled onto our Sumer Academy, a bespoke training journey that covers both technical and soft skills throughout your training with us. You can expect a blend of virtual, in person, and self-led learning to make sure you have every opportunity to reach your full potential.
If I need to relocate for a role will I receive any financial support?
We don’t offer any relocation cost support for this programme. However, if you’re successful in obtaining a role we will send you information closer to the time of joining which will include local estate agents, help with rental references and guides on the local area. We don’t offer any relocation cost support for this programme.
If I have any questions during the recruitment process, who do I contact?
Please email your dedicated talent acquisition point of contact, if you’re yet to have one assigned, please email recruitment@sumer.co.uk