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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in accounting with real clients and projects.
- Company: Join Grant Thornton, a leader in innovative accounting services.
- Benefits: Fully funded professional qualification, competitive salary, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with real responsibility and impactful work from day one.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to learning.
- Other info: Flexible work-life balance and a supportive network for your growth.
Overview
Accounting Services Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) – Reading
Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start.
Accounting Services professionals are trusted partners who support clients with essential financial processes. They help businesses stay compliant, manage their finances, and make informed decisions. From bookkeeping and financial reporting to payroll and VAT, our team ensures clients have accurate, timely, and insightful financial information. You\’ll gain experience across a wide range of industries and develop a deep understanding of how businesses operate day-to-day.
At Grant Thornton, 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 Accounting Services School Leaver Programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, a professional qualification, and a chance to make a real impact on UK businesses.
What You\’ll Do
- Work with a variety of clients, from household names to innovative start-ups, gaining exposure to different industries and challenges.
- Get hands-on with real accounting services projects, visiting client sites, attending stock counts, 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 companies manage money, risk, and operations.
- Use data and technology to spot trends, identify anomalies, and support your findings.
- 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 AAT / CFAB / ACCA qualification.
Who We\’re Looking For
- 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.
What You\’ll Get
- 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 (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays), life assurance, and private medical insurance.
What We Expect From You
As part of your training with us, you\’ll be provided with study leave to support you with completing your professional qualification. Completing a professional qualification is a substantial commitment and it\’s worth taking this into consideration 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.
Join the firm that\’s shaping the accountants of the future. 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.
Seniority level: Internship
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
Industries: Accounting
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Accounting Services Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Reading employer: ACCA Careers
Contact Detail:
ACCA Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounting Services Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or at events. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a spot in the Accounting Services Audit School Leaver Programme.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to accounting and finance. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your curiosity! During interviews, ask insightful questions about the company’s projects and values. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest updates and resources to help you along the way.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounting Services Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your curiosity and passion for accounting. Remember, we’re looking for individuals who are candid but kind.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and effective communication skills.
Show Your Interest in Learning: We love candidates who are eager to learn and grow! Mention any instances where you've taken the initiative to expand your knowledge, whether through school projects, part-time jobs, or personal interests related to finance and accounting.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the programme and what we’re looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at ACCA Careers
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on basic accounting principles and financial terminology. Being able to discuss concepts like bookkeeping, VAT, and financial reporting will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company and the programme. Ask about the types of clients you'll work with or how technology is integrated into their services. This demonstrates your curiosity and eagerness to learn, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Think of examples from school or previous experiences where you worked collaboratively. Highlight how you built trust and communicated effectively with others. This aligns perfectly with their desire for collaborative partners who can work well in a team.
✨Time Management is Key
Since the programme requires balancing work and study, be ready to discuss how you manage your time. Share strategies you've used to juggle multiple commitments, showing that you're prepared for the demands of the role and committed to your professional development.