Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle

Alternatively, Grant Thornton At Grant Thornton we do things differently - looking to the future, driving ambitious growth and pioneering positive change in our industry.

Providing audit, tax and advisory services, we empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership.

And we empower our people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture and work life balance.

A true alternative.

With over 5,000 people in the UK, and a presence in 150 global markets, we’re on an ambitious journey, from great to exceptional, and we need the best people to help us achieve our potential.

And with that comes the opportunity to help redefine what our industry looks like, and what you want from your career.

Job Description

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

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