Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Bristol

Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Bristol Overview

This is a four-day work experience programme that gives students an early look at accountancy and life at Grant Thornton. The experience is designed to be practical, interactive, and career-focused, offering a chance to step into the world of professional services and understand what a future in the sector could involve.

Grant Thornton presents itself as a firm that takes a different approach: it focuses on future growth, positive change, and giving clients support through audit, tax, and advisory services. The organisation also emphasises opportunity for its people, an inclusive environment, and a healthy balance between work and life. With a large UK workforce and an international footprint, the firm describes itself as ambitious and keen to attract people who want to help shape the future of the profession.

What the programme involves

Ignite is a short, intensive experience that lets participants see the firm from the inside. Over the course of four days, students will get involved in real work, spend time with Grant Thornton colleagues, and gain a clearer understanding of what a career in accountancy might look like.

The programme is aimed at students in Year 12 or Year 13 as of September 2026 who want to learn more about accountancy and business. It is especially relevant for those who are considering a school leaver route after finishing their studies. Students who are genuinely interested in starting their career straight from school are particularly encouraged to apply, as the programme is intended to help them explore that pathway in a meaningful way.

There is also the possibility of progressing further: strong performers during Ignite may be able to move ahead to one of Grant Thornton’s school leaver programmes, creating an early route into the firm before leaving school.

Programme details

The Bristol intake runs from Monday 17 August to Thursday 20 August 2026. The experience takes place in person at the Bristol office, and applicants should make sure the location is within a reasonable commuting distance from home. Because the programme is fully in person, attendance for every day is required in order to complete it successfully.

What you will do

• Work alongside Audit teams on real tasks to get a genuine feel for accounting work.
• Take part in development sessions that are designed to build confidence and strengthen professional skills.
• Join practical group activities that help improve teamwork and problem-solving.
• Meet and learn from people across the firm to start building your professional network.
• Learn how businesses operate and discover the range of career opportunities available within accountancy and beyond.

Who the programme is for

Applicants do not need any previous work experience. The firm is looking for students who are enthusiastic, curious, and keen to learn. A strong interest in business is important, along with an openness to exploring a future in accountancy.

Before applying, candidates are encouraged to think carefully about whether a school leaver programme fits their long-term plans. This experience is intended for people who can see themselves moving into accountancy after school and who want real responsibility, learning, and development from an early stage.

Grant Thornton also highlights the importance of cultural fit. The firm values people who are driven by purpose, naturally inquisitive, and able to be candid while still being kind. It also places strong emphasis on inclusion and on creating an environment where individual strengths are recognised and people can perform at their best.

How to apply

The application process is described as straightforward. Candidates begin by completing a short application form. This is followed by an online assessment that usually takes less than five minutes. Applicants then complete a written case study, which is intended to give them a better sense of the kind of work carried out at Grant Thornton.

Those who want to improve their chances are directed to the firm’s Employability Hub, where they can find guidance on what the company looks for and how to prepare for each stage of the process. The page also invites interested candidates to register their interest and join the talent community so they can hear about future intakes and receive advice directly by email.

Culture and wider context

The firm describes its culture as inclusive and supportive, with a focus on helping people flourish. It also highlights a number of external recognitions connected to inclusion and workplace standards, reflecting its broader commitment to diversity and responsible business practices.

Overall, this programme is presented as an opportunity for students to gain first-hand exposure to accountancy, build confidence, meet professionals, and explore whether a school leaver pathway could be the right next step after school.

Degree Requirement: Bachelor’s

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