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

Grant Thornton
Location
Manchester
Salary
£29,000 per year
Degree awarded
Level 6
Start date
1 January 2027
Vacancy reference
TRN27_169
Disability Confident
✓ Yes

About the role

Public Sector Audit: Audit is about giving people confidence in the numbers behind public services. As an auditor, you'll look closely at the financial records of public bodies to check they're accurate and complete - work that taxpayers, regulators, and the public all rely on. You'll get exposure to a wide range of clients, from central government to local authorities and the NHS, building the insight to understand how public sector organisations really operate. 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 (typically ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS) 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

Commercial curiosityDigital tools and data analysisProblem-solvingProfessional judgementClient relationship managementFinancial analysisAudit and financial reportingCritical thinkingAdaptabilityCollaborative communication

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). Named Partner sponsor from day one to support you grow in your career. Structured learning built around the capabilities of a future Partner. 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. In-person experiences with your cohort of future leaders. 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. GT Augment - Powered by AI, driven by you: Access to leading AI tools that drive efficiencies and handle time-consuming manual tasks, allowing focus on higher-value work.

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. International exposure. Access to latest leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one. In-person experiences with cohort. Access to additional opportunities including Senior Leadership Team involvement.

Things to consider

This is a distinctive pathway offering exceptional opportunities, but the work is demanding. You'll be juggling the demands of the role alongside an intensive professional qualification, so you'll need real drive and determination to keep pace and succeed. Flexible approach to academic entry requirements - candidates will be considered based on strengths and motivations.

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. They are investing £500m in digital transformation.
Website
www.grantthornton.co.uk
If this one works out

This role is in Manchester. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £550–£800 a month.

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