At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive deep into audits, analyse financials, and support clients with real impact.
- Company: Join Grant Thornton, a forward-thinking firm shaping the future of business.
- Benefits: Fully funded qualifications, competitive salary, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Launch your career with hands-on experience and mentorship in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to learning.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive network and opportunities for personal growth.
About Grant Thornton
At Grant Thornton we do things differently – looking to the future, driving ambitious growth and pioneering positive change in our industry. We provide audit, tax and advisory services and empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity and genuine partnership. With over 5,000 people in the UK and a presence in 150 global markets, we are on an ambitious journey from great to exceptional.
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 help organisations stay on track. 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 just 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
- 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 audits, 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 – dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your CFAB and ACA qualifications.
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 – paid study leave, expert tuition and all course fees covered.
- Technology to support your learning and client work.
- Dedicated support network – experienced managers, mentors and college tutors to 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, life assurance, private medical insurance.
What we expect from you
During your training 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 need 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 need to be focused, committed and organise your time well to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.
Job Details
- Seniority level: Internship
- Employment type: Full‑time
- Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
- Industries: Accounting
Private Capital Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Colchester employer: Grant Thornton UK
Contact Detail:
Grant Thornton UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Capital Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Grant Thornton on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the application process. This can give you insider knowledge and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to auditing and finance. Think about how your curiosity and problem-solving skills can shine through in your answers. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the industry! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've engaged with finance or auditing topics. Whether it's a project at school or a personal interest, let your enthusiasm for the field come through.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining Grant Thornton and ready to take that first step towards an exciting career.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Capital Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Colchester
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 auditing. 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 innovative thinking.
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 or skills, especially in finance or data analysis. This shows us you’re ready for the challenges ahead.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. 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 Grant Thornton UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Grant Thornton's values and services. Understand their approach to audit and how they empower clients. This will help you connect your answers to what they’re looking for in a candidate.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Since they value curiosity, prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the company. Ask about their approach to audits or how they support professional development. This shows you’re genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples from your studies or experiences where you’ve tackled challenges or solved problems. Be ready to discuss how you approached these situations and what the outcomes were, as this aligns with the qualities they seek.
✨Practice Effective Communication
During the interview, focus on expressing your ideas clearly and confidently. Practice articulating your thoughts on financial concepts or audit processes, as effective communication is key in this role. Remember, it’s not just what you say, but how you say it!