Public Sector Audit Programme; Autumn

About Grant Thornton

The UK member firms of Grant Thornton are part of a global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms, made up of some 76,000 professionals in over 150 countries. We’re a team of independent thinkers who put quality, inclusion and integrity first. All around the world we bring a different experience to our clients – a better experience that delivers the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond, is personal, proactive and agile.

That’s Grant Thornton.

Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start. Auditors are investigators, problem‑solvers and trusted advisers. They dive deep into how businesses operate, ensuring the numbers tell the real story and helping organisations stay on track. Think of it as a backstage pass to the business world, where you don’t just observe – you make a difference.

Public Sector Audit is where purpose meets impact. We are made up of 400 specialists working with government departments, public bodies and national services. You’ll examine how public money is spent, ask tough questions and help clients navigate financial challenges with confidence. In a world of rapid change and rising expectations, your work will protect the public purse and support services that millions rely on.

We’re looking for actively curious, purposefully driven and candid but kind individuals who want to shape the future of business – not follow it.

Our five‑year audit school leaver programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, a professional qualification and a chance to make a real impact on UK businesses.

• Work with a variety of clients, including major local public bodies such as Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and the Metropolitan Police.
• Get hands‑on with real audits, visiting client sites and carrying out testing that helps verify financial accuracy and uncover risks.
• Understand how businesses work by analysing financial statements, reviewing internal controls and learning how our clients manage money, risk and operations.
• Use data and technology to spot trends, identify anomalies and support your findings, including automated interrogation of financial information systems.
• Keep learning and growing by staying up to date with regulations, developing your professional judgement and building relationships with mentors and experts across the firm.
• Study with support, with dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your CFAB and ACA qualifications.

• Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions.
• Innovative problem solvers who think creatively, spot patterns and turn data into meaningful insights.
• Collaborative partners who work respectfully and build trust with others.
• Effective communicators who listen, adapt and express ideas clearly.
• Self‑leaders who manage and flex their time, mindset and energy effectively.
• Career‑minded contributors who take initiative and are motivated to grow.

• Kickstart your career with a structured five‑year programme designed to give you real‑world experience from day one.
• Fully funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition and all course fees covered.
• Technology to support your learning and client work.
• Dedicated support network, from experienced managers and mentors to college tutors who’ll guide you every step of the way.
• Our approach to how we work helps you balance life, learning and work.
• Exclusive discounts on shopping, gyms and wellbeing services.
• Opportunities to give back through mentoring, volunteering or fundraising initiatives.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including extra holiday options (flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays), life assurance and private medical insurance.

As part of your training with us you’ll be provided with study leave to support you in completing your professional qualification. This is a substantial commitment and it’s worth considering before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of your working hours. You’ll also be provided with study leave in the run‑up to your exams.

You’ll need to be focused, committed and organise your time well to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.

We’re growing fast and we want you to grow with us. With digital‑first innovation and an inclusive culture that powers progress, this is your chance to shape what’s next. This isn’t just a school leaver programme – it’s the start of something bigger.