Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Oxford

Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Oxford Overview

This is a four-day in-person work experience programme that gives students an early look at life in accountancy and a chance to experience a major professional services firm from the inside. The programme is designed to be practical, interactive, and career-focused, with the aim of helping participants understand what a future in accountancy and business could look like.

What the programme involves

• You will spend four action-filled days getting a feel for the work, culture, and opportunities available within the firm.
• You will work on real tasks alongside Audit teams, giving you direct exposure to the kind of work carried out in a professional services environment.
• You will take part in development sessions intended to build confidence and strengthen the skills that matter in the workplace.
• You will join hands-on group activities that help you improve teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
• You will meet and learn from people across the business, helping you start to build a network early in your career journey.
• You will gain insight into how businesses operate and discover the range of career paths that could be open to you in the future.

Who the programme is for

• The experience is aimed at students who will be in Year 12 or Year 13 as of September 2026.
• It is intended for young people who are interested in accountancy and business and who want to learn more before making decisions about their next steps.
• The programme is particularly suited to students who are considering a school leaver route after finishing their studies.
• Applicants do not need any previous work experience.
• The employer is looking for people who are enthusiastic, curious, and eager to learn.
• It is especially relevant for candidates who want to begin their professional journey straight from school and are looking for real responsibility, learning, and development.

Location and attendance

• The programme takes place in the Oxford office.
• It is an in-person experience, so full attendance is required in order to complete it successfully.
• Applicants must be available for the entire four-day period.
• The office you apply to should be within a reasonable commuting distance from your home.
• The dates for the programme are Monday 17 August to Thursday 20 August 2026.

Why it could be valuable

• You will get practical exposure to real work rather than only hearing about it in theory.
• You will have the chance to build confidence through structured learning and development activities.
• You can strengthen your teamwork and problem-solving abilities through collaborative exercises.
• You will begin building a professional network by meeting people from different parts of the organisation.
• You will gain a clearer understanding of accountancy, business, and the career opportunities available in the sector.
• Strong performance during the programme could lead to a fast-track opportunity onto one of the firm’s school leaver programmes, potentially securing your next step before you leave school.

What the firm values

The organisation describes itself as different from the traditional model, with a focus on future growth, positive change, and a culture that supports people to do their best work. It places importance on inclusion, work-life balance, and giving people genuine opportunity. The firm says it values people who are purposeful, inquisitive, and candid while also being kind, and it looks for applicants whose personal qualities align with those principles.

How to apply

The application process is designed to be straightforward. You begin by completing a short application form. After that, you move on to an online assessment that usually takes less than five minutes. The next stage is a written case study, which is intended to give you a better sense of the type of work carried out at the firm. Applicants are also encouraged to use the employability resources provided by the company for advice on what the firm looks for and how to prepare for each stage.

Additional support and resources

The company directs candidates to its employability hub for guidance on the recruitment process and tips for performing well in the application stages. It also invites interested people to join its talent community to receive updates about future intakes and career advice.

Degree Requirement: Bachelor’s

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