Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Leeds

Grant Thornton Ignite Work Experience August 2026 – Leeds Overview

This is a four-day work experience programme that gives students an inside look at accountancy and life at Grant Thornton. The experience is designed to help you understand what a future in the profession could look like by combining real work, skills development, and direct contact with people across the firm.

What the programme involves

• You will spend four action-packed days getting a practical introduction to the world of accountancy.
• You will work on real tasks alongside the Audit team to see how accounting work is carried out in practice.
• You will take part in development sessions focused on building professional confidence and strengthening workplace skills.
• You will join interactive group activities that are intended to improve teamwork and problem-solving.
• You will meet colleagues from different parts of the business and begin building your professional network early.
• You will learn how businesses operate and explore the range of career opportunities available in accountancy and related areas.

Who the programme is for

The experience 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 suited to people who are seriously considering starting their career through a school leaver programme after finishing school. The firm says that applicants do not need any previous work experience, but they should be enthusiastic, curious, and keen to learn.

Grant Thornton particularly encourages applications from students who are interested in using this experience as a stepping stone into a school leaver route. If you are excited by the idea of beginning your professional journey straight from school and want real responsibility, learning, and development, the programme is intended for you.

Dates and location

• Dates: Monday 17 August to Thursday 20 August 2026.
• Location: Leeds office.
• The programme is delivered in person, so full attendance is required.
• Applicants should make sure the office is within a reasonable commuting distance from home.

What you can gain

• Practical exposure to real work in an Audit environment.
• Improved confidence through structured development sessions.
• Better teamwork and problem-solving skills through hands-on activities.
• Early connections with people across Grant Thornton.
• A clearer understanding of how businesses work and where a career in accountancy could lead.
• A possible fast-track route onto one of the firm’s school leaver programmes if you stand out during the experience.

What Grant Thornton looks for

The firm describes its culture as inclusive and supportive, with an emphasis on helping people flourish. It values individuality and wants people who align with its principles. In practice, that means looking for candidates who are purpose-driven, actively curious, and candid but kind.

Grant Thornton also highlights its broader environment as one that offers opportunity, inclusion, and work-life balance, and it presents itself as a different kind of professional services firm with ambitions to keep growing and improving.

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, which usually takes less than five minutes. The next stage is a written case study, which is designed to give you a better sense of the type of work the firm does.

If you want extra help preparing, the firm points applicants to its Employability Hub, where you can find advice on what it looks for and how to approach each stage of the process. You can also join the talent community to receive updates about future intakes and guidance by email.

Additional context

Grant Thornton presents itself as a large UK business with thousands of people and a presence in many global markets. It says it provides audit, tax, and advisory services and aims to create an environment where people can develop, contribute, and balance work with life outside work. The organisation also highlights its commitment to inclusion and recognises a range of external accreditations and memberships that reflect that focus.

Degree Requirement: Bachelor’s

Visa Sponsorship Not Confirmed