At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into audits, analyse financials, and support public sector clients with real impact.
- Company: Grant Thornton - a forward-thinking firm redefining the audit industry.
- Benefits: Fully funded qualifications, competitive salary, flexible work-life balance, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Join a supportive network and enjoy opportunities for mentoring and volunteering.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on experience and a chance to shape the future of business.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 € per year.
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.
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. 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 will get under the surface of how public money is spent, ask the tough questions, and help clients navigate financial challenges with confidence.
At Grant Thornton, we are 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 will do:
- Work with a variety of clients, including significant 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.
- 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 are 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 will 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 will guide you every step of the way.
- 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, life assurance, and private medical insurance.
What we expect from you:
As part of your training with us, you will be provided with study leave to support you with completing your professional qualification. Completing a professional qualification is a substantial commitment and it is worth taking this into consideration before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of your working hours. You will also be provided with study leave in the run up to your exams. You will need to be focused, committed, and organise your time well to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.
Join the firm that is shaping the accountants of the future. We are 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 is next. This isn’t just a school leaver programme. It is the start of something bigger.
Register your interest: Join our talent community to be the first to know when applications open for our next intake, and to receive advice and guidance straight to your inbox.
Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle employer: Grant Thornton LLP
At Grant Thornton, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and work-life balance, particularly in our Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme based in Carlisle. With a structured five-year programme offering real-world experience, fully funded professional qualifications, and a supportive network of mentors, we empower our employees to grow and make a meaningful impact in the public sector. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values curiosity, collaboration, and innovation, all while enjoying competitive benefits and opportunities for personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to current employees at Grant Thornton on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Grant Thornton’s values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just interested in any job, but specifically in how you can contribute to our mission of driving positive change in the public sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Since auditors are all about investigating and finding solutions, try working through some case studies or mock audits. This will help you think on your feet during interviews and demonstrate your analytical mindset.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find loads of resources on our employability hub to help you ace the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle
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 the role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. Highlight your problem-solving abilities and any relevant experiences that showcase your innovative thinking.
Show Your Interest in Public Sector Audit:Demonstrate your understanding of the public sector and why it excites you. Mention any specific interests or experiences that relate to working with government departments or public bodies.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows us that you pay attention to detail, which is super important in our line of work!
How to prepare for a job interview at Grant Thornton LLP
✨Research Grant Thornton
Before your interview, take some time to really understand what Grant Thornton stands for. Familiarise yourself with their values, mission, and the specific services they offer in public sector audit. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions that reflect your curiosity about the role and the company. Ask about their approach to public sector audits or how they support their employees' professional growth. This shows you're engaged and thinking critically about your potential future there.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Since auditors are problem-solvers, be ready to discuss examples from your past where you've tackled challenges creatively. Think of situations where you had to analyse data or make decisions based on limited information. This will demonstrate your ability to think like an auditor right from the start.
✨Practice Effective Communication
Effective communication is key in this role. During the interview, focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms, as this will be crucial when working with clients and colleagues. Remember, it's not just about what you say, but how you say it!
