Public Sector Audit Programme; Autumn

Public Sector Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Bristol at ACCA Careers

Grant Thornton is part of a global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms. We prioritise quality, inclusion and integrity, and work with government departments, public bodies and national services to ensure public money is managed responsibly.

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. Public Sector Audit is where purpose meets impact. You’ll examine how public money is spent, ask tough questions and help clients navigate financial challenges with confidence, protecting the public purse and supporting services millions rely on.

• Work with a variety of clients, including major 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 CFAB and ACA qualifications.

• 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.

• 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.

As part of your training with us, you will receive study leave to support you in achieving your professional qualification. This is a substantial commitment – you will be required to study in your spare time outside of working hours and will need to be focused, committed and organise your time well to balance all the training and examination requirements.

Join the firm that’s shaping the accountants of the future. We’re growing fast and 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. It’s not just a school leaver programme – it’s the start of something bigger.