Private Capital Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Manchester Manchester

Grant Thornton UK LLP; Manchester; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading audit and advisory firm seeks proactive and curious individuals for its school leaver programme in Manchester. You'll engage in real audits, gain hands-on insights into business operations, and receive a fully funded professional qualification with a strong support network. The role offers exposure to diverse clients and technologies while providing a competitive salary and numerous benefits to ensure a healthy work-life balance. Apply now for a chance to shape the future of business.

Benefits

Fully funded professional qualification

Paid study leave

Competitive salary

Private medical insurance

Flexible bank holidays

Qualifications

• Curious minds exploring ideas and asking thoughtful questions.
• Innovative problem-solvers who turn data into meaningful insights.
• Collaborative individuals who build trust and work respectfully.

Responsibilities

• Work with a variety of clients, gaining real audit experience.
• Visit client sites, attend stock counts, and verify financial accuracy.
• Analyze financial statements and review internal controls.

Skills

Curiosity

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Self-leadership

Job description

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, empowering clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership. We also empower our people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture, and work‑life balance – a true alternative.

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. This is your chance 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.

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 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 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, with 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, 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, you will receive study leave to support you in 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 will 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.

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