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Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2027) - Leeds

Grant Thornton
Location
Leeds
Salary
£29,000 per year
Degree awarded
Level 6
Start date
1 January 2027
Vacancy reference
TRN27_137
Disability Confident
✓ Yes

About the role

Go one better than Four. The industry is set to change. It's time to get with a new kind of programme. One that leaves traditional apprenticeship schemes behind. From the off, you'll see a future you want to stay for. Because we don't just recruit exceptional school leaver talent. We turn trainees into leaders. We're talking bigger opportunities, faster growth, and an experience designed to accelerate your career from the start. Take the purple path. As an auditor in our Public Sector team you will: Work with a variety of clients, from central government departments to local authorities and NHS bodies. Build strong client relationships, understand how each organisation delivers for the public, and develop your technical expertise in audit and financial reporting. Get hands-on from day one, working with real data sets, selecting samples, gathering evidence from clients, and testing it to assess the real-world impact of any errors on the business. Apply professional judgement to assess the policies and estimates clients adopt. Analyse financial statements and review internal controls, learning how companies manage money, risk and operations. Study for a relevant professional qualification which will complement your technical knowledge, and prepare you for future career success.

Requirements

Commercial curiosity - genuine interest in our clients' businesses and an eye for spotting opportunities to add value, from the start. A digital explorer's mindset - curiosity for digital tools and data, and a drive to find smarter solutions early on. Adaptability - embracing change, asking good questions, and picking things up quickly when thrown in at the deep end. Strong problem-solving skills - critical thinking, sound judgement, and attention to detail from your first live piece of work. Collaborative communication - listening well, adapting your approach, and building trust with clients and colleagues alike. A proactive approach to your career - taking ownership of your growth and seeking out opportunities rather than waiting for them to come to you.

Skills

auditfinancial analysisclient relationship managementprofessional judgementdigital toolsdata analysisproblem-solvingcommunication

Training & development

Fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered. Study for a relevant professional qualification (typically ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS). Structured learning built around the capabilities of a future Partner. In-person experiences with your cohort of future leaders. Access to the latest leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one, building skills that will shape the future of your career.
Additional training
International exposure, helping you build a global perspective early in your career. Access to additional opportunities as you reach your potential - from working with our Senior Leadership Team to shaping new initiatives. Business Development responsibilities before you even qualify. Hands-on opportunities to win work and support our growth ambitions. Named Partner sponsor from day one to support career growth.

Company benefits

Market-leading salary of £29,000 and full benefits package. Fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered. Named Partner sponsor from day one to support you grow in your career. International exposure, helping you build a global perspective early in your career. Access to the latest leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one, building skills that will shape the future of your career. Meaningful client interaction outside of the day-to-day. Structured learning built around the capabilities of a future Partner. In-person experiences with your cohort of future leaders. One pathway, one cohort, and a network for life. Access to additional opportunities as you reach your potential. Business Development responsibilities before you even qualify.

About Grant Thornton

Grant Thornton is a market-leader for Public Sector Audit, holding a 35% share of NHS Audits and partnering with over half of all UK councils. Audit was their strongest growing service line in 2025 with 11% revenue growth. They are investing £500m in digital transformation and leading AI tools that drive efficiencies.
If this one works out

This role is in Leeds. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £500–£730 a month.

What rent could you afford on £29,000?Moving to LeedsRenting at 18