Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2027) - Carlisle
Grant ThorntonKey Takeaways
- Start a career in Public Sector Audit with Grant Thornton, gaining hands-on experience and a fully funded professional qualification.
- Earn a market-leading salary of £29,000 per year, with a comprehensive benefits package.
- Develop skills in audit, financial reporting, and AI tools, working with clients like central government, local authorities, and NHS bodies.
- The programme is designed for ambitious individuals with commercial curiosity and a proactive approach to their career.
About the Role
This programme offers a different approach to traditional apprenticeship schemes, aiming to develop trainees into leaders with accelerated career growth and significant opportunities.
What We Offer:
- Market-leading Salary & Benefits: A salary of £29,000 with a comprehensive benefits package.
- Professional Qualification: Fully funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees.
- Mentorship: A named Partner sponsor from day one to support your career development.
- Global Exposure: Opportunities to build an international perspective.
- Digital Skills: Access to leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one.
- Client Interaction: Meaningful client engagement to understand business operations and drive results.
- Structured Learning: Development focused on future Partner capabilities, going beyond technical skills.
- Networking: In-person experiences with a cohort of future leaders, building a lifelong network.
- Growth Opportunities: Access to additional opportunities, including working with the Senior Leadership Team and shaping new initiatives.
- Business Development: Hands-on experience in business development responsibilities before qualification.
Digital Transformation
Grant Thornton is investing £500m in digital transformation, utilizing AI to handle manual tasks and allow trainees to focus on higher-value work. You will gain experience and training to progress rapidly, focusing on detailed analysis, professional judgement, and client insights. While AI tools enhance efficiency, human skills like judgement, curiosity, and care remain crucial for client relationships.
The Role: Public Sector Audit
Audit in the public sector involves ensuring the accuracy and completeness of financial records for public services, providing confidence to taxpayers, regulators, and the public. You will work with a diverse range of clients, including central government departments, local authorities, and NHS bodies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build strong client relationships and understand how public sector organisations operate.
- Develop technical expertise in audit and financial reporting.
- Work with real data sets, gather evidence, and test it to assess the impact of errors.
- Apply professional judgement to client policies and estimates.
- Analyse financial statements and review internal controls.
- Study for a relevant professional qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
Who We're Looking For:
We seek driven and determined individuals who can manage the demands of an intensive programme and professional qualification. Ideal candidates will possess:
- Commercial Curiosity: A genuine interest in clients' businesses and an eye for opportunities.
- Digital Mindset: Curiosity for digital tools and data, seeking smarter solutions.
- Adaptability: Ability to embrace change, ask questions, and learn quickly.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Critical thinking, sound judgement, and attention to detail.
- Collaborative Communication: Strong listening skills and the ability to build trust.
- Proactive Career Approach: Taking ownership of personal growth and seeking opportunities.
We have a flexible approach to academic entry requirements and will consider them alongside your strengths and motivations.