Our graduate scheme - you don’t need an accountancy degree to become an accountant
Not all accountants come from the backgrounds you'd expect, writes Imogen Eley, who heads up our recruitment at Page Kirk Nottingham. In fact, our student and graduate places are open to those from a wide range of disciplines.
Many people are often surprised to learn that accountants – and those looking to start out in the profession – haven't necessarily studied accountancy at university. In fact, when we look for graduate talent here at Page Kirk, or for students to join us on placements, we cast our net much more widely. Some of those who joining us have taken degrees in business management or maths, while others may have opted for subjects as diverse as engineering or English literature. Each brings their own unique perspective.
What all our students and graduates have in common is self-motivation, commitment and a desire to forge a career within a stimulating business environment. Provided you have – or you're predicted to get – a 2:1 in any subject, we'll select on the basis of talent and aptitude.
Are you a fluent communicator, for instance? Good at time management and working within a team? Methodical, trustworthy and confident with IT? If so, Page Kirk may well have an opportunity for you.
You'll find more information about our student and graduate placements here, including some of the observations of people who've already made the journey: https://www.pagekirk.co.uk/careers/students-and-graduates
Trained to succeed – becoming chartered
A significant number of our students and graduates go on to become chartered accountants and are promoted within the firm to managerial level in due course. Some even go on to become partners.
We support our accountancy staff towards chartered status, as it's a reflection of the high standards we and our clients expect, but also because it provides recognition, credibility, high earning potential and diverse career opportunities for our accountants. Along with our own allied programme of training and professional development, you can be sure to develop a well-rounded view that will allow you to support our clients in their business objectives.
A career in accountancy
According to the professional body ICEAW, which represents some 210,000 members worldwide, chartered accountants assess, audit, advise and analyse on behalf of their clients or employers. Once you've achieved the qualification, you're trusted to measure the value of assets, judge how organisations are performing, undertake audits, and provide advice on anything from product launches to acquisitions.
Part of thriving city life…
When you join Page Kirk, you're working in a firm that's right at the heart of life in Nottingham. You can take advantage of a compact city with a vibrant culture, sampling the diverse range of restaurants and independent shops, enjoying the night life or exploring the green spaces. And, of course, we're known for our sport too, as hosts to Trent Bridge cricket ground and the stadiums of both Nottingham Forest and Notts County.
… and part of a unique culture
We believe in work-life balance and in supporting the local community through our many fundraising initiatives in support of charities. At the same time, we encourage people to push themselves and succeed in their careers. One of our current partners was invited to take on the role at the age of just 29. We're also proud of our international connections, which allow us to offer an American exchange programme for three months when you've completed your studies. It's the perfect opportunity to see the US business environment at first hand, while also sampling life across the Atlantic.
All in all, we feel the package we're able to offer is impressive and our commitment to our trainees is second to none. Apply by uploading your CV and covering letter here. Closing date is Sunday 1 March 2026.
“I chose the graduate scheme at Page Kirk because it offered a strong route to qualification with a broad range of client exposure, and the size of the firm meant I wouldn't be lost in the crowd. Coming from a hospitality background, I wasn't sure what to expect when applying to Page Kirk, however the recruitment process was clear and approachable. I appreciated that they looked beyond my degrees and valued transferable skills like communication and time management. I chose the graduate scheme because it offered hands-on experience with a wide range of clients, and I liked the idea of training at a local firm where I could be much more involved. The transition into accountancy has been challenging but rewarding. Study leave is allocated fairly, and there are more experienced team members to turn to for help with tricky topics, the team are supportive, and everyone is happy to share their knowledge. The variety of tasks, from accounts prep to audit testing, has helped me learn about the industry on a more practical approach.”
“The supportive environment at Page Kirk makes progressing skills and knowledge very achievable. There is a great mix of work, exposing you to many different sides of the accounting world. The exams we sit integrate seamlessly with our work in the office, allowing us to apply what we learn in college practically. Additionally, the firm's commitment to social events provides wonderful opportunities to get to know your colleagues outside of the work environment.”
“Having completed a placement year, I have returned on the graduate programme, training towards the ACA CTA joint qualification. The idea of being a qualified chartered accountant was a big factor drawing me to return, having plenty of time to study towards this, whilst gaining practical experience across the accounts, audit and tax departments is a combination few firms in practice offer. Having been interested in tax on my placement, being offered to broaden my knowledge and work towards the CTA as well is an opportunity I was very keen for. The other big factor in my return was the socially active (and helpful) colleagues I am surrounded by along the way.”
“I chose the graduate scheme at Page Kirk because it felt I'd be more than just a number here, and I wanted to be part of a team where I'd feel valued. The recruitment process was quick and straightforward, which made a great first impression. Since joining, I've found the team really supportive and friendly, and it's been great working alongside other graduates. The work is varied, from audit and accounts to tax, and I've enjoyed getting out to client sites and seeing how different businesses operate. Coming from a non-accounting background, it's definitely been a learning curve, but everything I study ties into the work I do, which really helps things click. There are loads of support, whether it's study leave, mentoring or just advice from people further along in the course. Outside of work, the social side of Page Kirk is great, we've had some brilliant staff events that really help you feel part of the team. But what I would say, for anyone coming straight from uni, that first week of getting up before midday hits hard... but don't worry the routine kicks in quickly!”
Tom Casey
Trainee Accountant
“I've enjoyed working as part of a team at Page Kirk, which is professional, supportive, and fun. This positive environment has made me feel like I've been part of a firm for far longer than I actually have. The support I've received has been outstanding from the very beginning, especially since I transitioned from an engineering background. Page Kirk offers a fantastic balance of work, study, and social events, making it a great place to grow both professionally and personally.”