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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with clients on R&D claims and tax legislation from day one.
- Company: Join Grant Thornton, a global leader in audit, tax, and advisory services.
- Benefits: Fully funded qualifications, competitive salary, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with real-world experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are key.
- Other info: Flexible work-life balance and opportunities for personal growth.
Join to apply for the Innovation Tax School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) – Manchester role at Grant Thornton UK.
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.
What you\’ll do
- Work with a variety of clients, dealing with both technical and finance professionals discussing science and technologies, as well as tax legislation to ensure an optimised and well supported R&D claim.
- Take on responsibility quickly; day to day your role will include liaising with a diverse portfolio of clients and guiding through the R&D regime.
- Get involved from day one, contributing to real tax projects — not just observing — and making a meaningful impact early on.
- Collaborate with experienced colleagues, breaking down complex tax changes and turning them into clear, practical advice for clients.
- Learn every day on the job, with guidance from mentors and a structured training programme to build your technical, digital and professional skills.
- Study with support, with dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your ATT and CTA qualifications.
Who we\’re looking for
- Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions.
- Innovative problem solvers with a sharp eye for data and detail.
- 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 four-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 will 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
- Education and Training
Industries
- Accounting
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Innovation Tax School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Manchester employer: Grant Thornton UK
Contact Detail:
Grant Thornton UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Tax School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Manchester
✨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. You never know who might give you a heads-up about opportunities or offer valuable advice.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand what makes Grant Thornton tick and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their values. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your problem-solving abilities and teamwork.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you apply through our website, make sure your passion for the role shines through. Tailor your application to highlight your curiosity and innovative mindset, and don’t shy away from sharing your ideas on how you can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview. A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows you're genuinely interested in the position and gives you another chance to reiterate why you’d be a great fit for the Innovation Tax School Leaver Programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Tax School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Innovation Tax School Leaver Programme. Highlight your curiosity and problem-solving abilities, as these are key traits we value at Grant Thornton.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial in our line of work. Use your written application to demonstrate how you express ideas clearly and adapt your message for different audiences. This will show us you're ready to collaborate with clients and colleagues alike.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for genuine individuals who are motivated to grow and contribute. Share your unique perspective and experiences that have shaped your interest in tax and finance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. This ensures your application reaches the right people and allows us to get to know you better from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at Grant Thornton UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of tax legislation and R&D claims. Brush up on any relevant science and technology topics that might come up. This will show your curiosity and readiness to engage with the role.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past. Think about times when you had to analyse data or work collaboratively to find a solution. This aligns perfectly with what Grant Thornton is looking for in innovative problem solvers.
✨Practice Effective Communication
Since effective communication is key, practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms. You might be asked to break down tax concepts, so being clear and concise will demonstrate your ability to communicate well with clients and colleagues.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment
Be ready to discuss how you plan to balance work and study during the programme. Show that you're organised and committed to completing your professional qualifications. This will reassure them that you’re serious about your career development.
