Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2027) - London
Grant Thornton
Location
London
Salary
£31,750 per year
Degree awarded
Level 6
Start date
1 January 2027
Vacancy reference
TRN27_156
Disability Confident
✓ Yes
About the role
Public Sector Audit programme for school leavers. 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 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. Apply professional judgement to assess policies and estimates clients adopt. Analyse financial statements and review internal controls.
Requirements
Commercial curiosity - genuine interest in clients' businesses and an eye for spotting opportunities to add value. Digital explorer's mindset - curiosity for digital tools and data, and a drive to find smarter solutions. Adaptability - embracing change, asking good questions, and picking things up quickly. Strong problem-solving skills - critical thinking, sound judgement, and attention to detail. Collaborative communication - listening well, adapting approach, and building trust. Proactive approach to career - taking ownership of growth and seeking out opportunities.
Skills
Financial analysisAudit proceduresProfessional judgementClient relationship managementData analysisAI tool proficiencyProblem-solvingCommunication
Required qualifications
Essential
Professional Qualification · Accounting (ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS)
Training & development
Study for a relevant professional qualification (typically ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS) with fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered. Structured learning built around the capabilities of a future Partner. In-person experiences with cohort of future leaders.
Future prospects
Turn trainees into leaders with bigger opportunities and faster growth. Access to latest leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one. International exposure, helping build a global perspective early in career. Named Partner sponsor from day one to support career growth. Business Development responsibilities and hands-on opportunities to win work before qualification.
Company benefits
Market-leading salary of £31,750 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. International exposure. Access to latest leading AI tools and digital solutions. Meaningful client interaction. Structured learning. In-person experiences with cohort. Access to additional opportunities as reaching potential including working with Senior Leadership Team. Business Development responsibilities.
About Grant Thornton
Grant Thornton is the 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. Investing £500m in digital transformation with leading AI tools.
Website
www.grantthornton.co.ukIf this one works out
This role is in London. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £900–£1,400 a month.