At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive deep into audits, ensuring financial accuracy and helping public bodies navigate challenges.
- Company: Join Grant Thornton, a forward-thinking firm with a vibrant culture and global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional qualification support, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Flexible entry requirements and a supportive network for your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the public sector while kickstarting your career.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a desire to learn are key.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ 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.
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, 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 three-year audit graduate 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 ACA qualification.
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 three-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, and 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 graduate scheme. It’s the start of something bigger.
Public Sector Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle employer: Grant Thornton
Grant Thornton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to mentor junior staff while working with a diverse portfolio of large corporate clients in a globally connected environment. The flexible working options further enhance the work-life balance, making it a rewarding place to build your career in tax advisory.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Sector Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Grant Thornton, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Grant Thornton and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Sector Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Grant Thornton and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Grant Thornton
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Grant Thornton, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Grant Thornton.
