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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into real audits and analyse financial statements for major public sector clients.
- Company: Join a fast-growing firm shaping the future of accounting with an inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Fully funded professional qualifications, competitive salary, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Launch your career with real responsibilities and make a meaningful impact on society.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are key.
- Other info: Enjoy a balanced approach to work and learning with dedicated support.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
More than you expected
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 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. One that delivers the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond. 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 get under the surface of how public money is spent, ask the tough questions, and help clients navigate financial challenges with confidence. In a world of rapid change and rising expectations, your work will help protect the public purse and support services that millions rely on.
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 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.
What You\’ll Do
Whether you\’re joining straight from school or after university, you\’ll be part of a team that helps businesses stay financially healthy, transparent, and accountable. You\’ll learn by doing, with plenty of support along the way.
- Work with a variety of clients, our portfolio includes the biggest and most significant of 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.
Who We\’re Looking For
We\’ve got a flexible approach to academic entry requirements, and we\’ll consider these alongside your strengths and motivations. We\’re looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas, and go beyond expectations.
- 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
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 (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays)
- Life assurance
- 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.
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Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Liverpool employer: ACCA Careers
Contact Detail:
ACCA Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Liverpool
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public sector audit space. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out for informational chats. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its clients. Understand their values and recent projects, especially those related to public bodies like NHS trusts or local councils. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Since they’re looking for innovative thinkers, try tackling some real-world case studies or financial scenarios. This will not only boost your confidence but also give you great examples to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us and ready to take that first step towards a rewarding career in public sector audit.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Curiosity: We want to see your curious mind in action! When writing your application, share examples of how you've explored ideas or asked thoughtful questions in past experiences. This will help us understand your innovative spirit.
Be Clear and Concise: Effective communication is key! Make sure your application is clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to express your ideas and experiences, so we can easily see how you fit into our team.
Highlight Teamwork: Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. In your application, mention times when you've worked with others to achieve a goal. This shows us that you value building trust and respect within a team.
Demonstrate Your Commitment: We’re looking for self-leaders who are motivated to grow. Share your plans for balancing study and work commitments, and let us know how you manage your time effectively. This will show us you're ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at ACCA Careers
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the public sector audit landscape. Familiarise yourself with key clients like Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and the Metropolitan Police. Understanding their operations and challenges will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Show Off Your Curiosity
This role is all about asking thoughtful questions and exploring ideas. Prepare a few insightful questions about the programme or the firm’s approach to audits. This not only demonstrates your curiosity but also your proactive mindset, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of examples from your past experiences where you worked effectively in a team. Be ready to discuss how you built trust and communicated clearly with others, as these skills are crucial for success in the programme.
✨Time Management is Key
With the commitment to study for professional qualifications alongside work, it’s essential to showcase your time management skills. Share specific strategies you’ve used in the past to balance multiple responsibilities, highlighting your ability to stay focused and organised.
