Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Leeds

Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Leeds Overview

This is a four-day in-person work experience programme in Leeds that introduces students to the world of accountancy and to life at Grant Thornton. The experience is designed to give a genuine taste of the firm’s work, culture and career paths, while also helping participants build confidence, develop practical skills and understand what a future in professional services could look like.

The programme is aimed at students who are thinking seriously about a school leaver route after finishing their studies. It is especially relevant for those who want real responsibility, meaningful learning and early development opportunities straight from school. Strong performers may also have the chance to move ahead onto one of the firm’s school leaver programmes, potentially securing a future place before they leave school.

What you will do

• Spend four days taking part in an introductory experience that shows what accountancy work is like in practice.
• Work alongside Audit teams on real tasks so you can see how the work is done day to day.
• Join sessions focused on professional development, helping you build confidence and improve workplace skills.
• Take part in interactive group exercises that strengthen teamwork and problem-solving.
• Meet colleagues from different parts of the firm and start building your professional network.
• Learn how businesses operate and discover the range of career opportunities available within the organisation.
• Engage actively with the programme and show curiosity, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
• Attend every day in person, as full participation is required to complete the experience successfully.

Who the programme is for

• Students in Year 12 or Year 13 as of September 2026.
• Young people who want to learn more about accountancy and business.
• Applicants who are considering a school leaver programme after school.
• People who do not need prior work experience to apply.
• Individuals who are enthusiastic, curious and keen to learn.
• Candidates with a strong interest in starting a career in accountancy after school.
• Applicants who can travel to the Leeds office within a reasonable commuting distance.
• People whose personal approach reflects the firm’s values: purpose-driven, actively curious, and candid but kind.

Programme details

• Dates: Monday 17 August to Thursday 20 August 2026.
• Location: Leeds office.
• Format: In person only.
• Attendance: You must be available for the full duration of the programme.

Why apply

• Gain first-hand exposure to a major professional services environment.
• See what it is like to work with Audit teams on real business tasks.
• Build confidence through structured development sessions.
• Improve teamwork and problem-solving through practical group activities.
• Start building your network early by meeting people across the firm.
• Understand how businesses work and where a career in accountancy can lead.
• Potentially progress onto a school leaver programme if you stand out during the experience.
• Join a workplace that emphasises inclusion and values the strengths each person brings.

How to apply

The application process is straightforward. You begin by completing a short application form. After that, you will be asked to complete an online assessment that usually takes under 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 Grant Thornton.

Applicants are encouraged to make use of the firm’s Employability Hub for guidance on what the team looks for and how to prepare for each stage of the process.

If you are ready to begin your career journey and want to explore accountancy in a practical setting, you can apply now.

Culture and values

Grant Thornton describes its culture as inclusive and supportive, with an emphasis on helping people flourish and perform at their best. The firm says it values the qualities that make people different and looks for individuals who are purpose-driven, actively curious, and candid while still being kind. It also highlights its commitment to creating an environment where people can thrive and where work-life balance matters.

Additional context

The firm presents itself as a business that takes a different approach, with ambitions to grow and to help shape the future of its industry. It provides audit, tax and advisory services and says it aims to support clients through insight, curiosity and partnership. The organisation also notes its large UK workforce and international reach, which gives participants a broader view of the kind of environment they could join in the future.

Degree Requirement: Bachelor’s

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