
Private Capital Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2027) - Edinburgh
Grant ThorntonKey Takeaways
- Start a career in Audit with a market-leading salary of £29,000 and a full benefits package.
- Undertake a fully-funded professional qualification (ACA, ICAS, ACCA etc.) with paid study leave.
- Gain hands-on experience with AI tools and client interaction from day one.
- Applications are for the Autumn 2027 intake.
About the Role
This programme offers a different approach to traditional apprenticeship schemes, aiming to turn trainees into leaders with accelerated career growth and bigger opportunities.
What We Offer
- A market-leading salary of £29,000 and a full benefits package.
- A fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered.
- A named Partner sponsor from day one.
- International exposure to build a global perspective.
- Access to the latest AI tools and digital solutions.
- Meaningful client interaction to understand business operations and drive results.
- Structured learning focused on developing capabilities for a future Partner.
- In-person experiences with a cohort of future leaders, building a network for life.
- Access to additional opportunities, including working with the Senior Leadership Team and shaping new initiatives.
- Business Development responsibilities before qualification, including winning work and supporting growth.
Technology and AI
We are investing £500m in digital transformation. Our leading AI tools handle time-consuming manual tasks, allowing you to focus on higher-value work and progress rapidly. You will spend more time on detailed analysis, professional judgement, and insights that add value. You will review and challenge AI inputs and outputs to ensure exceptional client service. While AI enhances efficiency, our people provide judgement, curiosity, and care in client relationships. You will learn to use these tools while developing essential human skills.
The Role: Audit
Audit provides confidence in a business's financial numbers. As an auditor, you will examine financial records for accuracy and completeness, work that is relied upon by investors, regulators, and the public. You will gain exposure to a wide range of clients and sectors, developing commercial awareness.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Working with diverse clients, from large companies to start-ups, building relationships and understanding their operations.
- Developing technical expertise in audit and financial reporting.
- Using real data sets, selecting samples, gathering evidence, and testing it to assess the impact of errors.
- Applying professional judgement to assess client policies and estimates.
- Analysing financial statements and reviewing internal controls.
- Studying for a relevant professional qualification (typically ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS).
Who We're Looking For
This pathway requires drive and determination to keep pace with demanding work and an intensive professional qualification. We seek individuals with:
- Commercial curiosity: A genuine interest in clients' businesses and an eye for spotting opportunities.
- A digital explorer's mindset: Curiosity for digital tools and data, and a drive for smarter solutions.
- Adaptability: Embracing change, asking questions, and learning quickly.
- Strong problem-solving skills: Critical thinking, sound judgement, and attention to detail.
- Collaborative communication: Effective listening, adapting your approach, and building trust.
- A proactive approach to your career: Taking ownership of growth and seeking opportunities.
We have a flexible approach to academic entry requirements and will consider these alongside your strengths and motivations.