VAT School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Manchester Manchester Posted > 1 month ago

We are committed to building a culture where our people have access to the necessary benefits to help promote a healthy lifestyle and thrive. Choosing to take the alternative route into accountancy, Kerry started her career through an apprenticeship rather than university. Here, she From literature to ledgers, Dan Barber's journey into Indirect Tax proves that the path to becoming a future accountant doesn't have to be traditional. Now two Supported by a culture of encouragement and hands-on learning, Julia's journey from economics student to Tax Associate began with a four-week internship that Emily Dark, one of our Audit Associates, reflects on her first two years at Grant Thornton - from studying for her ICAS exams to representing Scotland in Yad's path into audit began with a BTEC in Business and a job as a line chef, experiences that sparked his interest in teamwork, problem-solving, and learning Maria's journey has been shaped by curiosity and continuous growth. In her own words, she shares how moving from Dubai to London opened the door to a Everyone at Grant Thornton benefits from private medical insurance, and Kevin experienced its value first-hand. Here he talks about when his life changed Driven by curiosity and an appetite for variety, Alex's journey from biomedical science graduate to audit trainee has been shaped by hands-on experience, a Mike talks to us about rejoining Grant Thornton, his drivers for returning to the firm, and setting the right boundaries to achieve the right work-life balance. With a degree in modern languages, Oliver took an alternative route into professional services. Now working in transaction services, he shares how the firm has Returning to work after maternity leave can be daunting - but for Hadia, Accounting Advisory Manager in CFO Solutions, it became a story of support, Lola joined Grant Thornton as a member of the Real Estate Tax team. Originally from Nigeria, she brings a global perspective, a passion for meaningful work, Nirunthan (Niru) joined the firm as a placement student during his university years. After graduating, he returned to the firm as an advisory associate in the Everything you need to know about life as a trainee, from the experiences you'll get to the skills you need.Our employability hub is designed to help you feel prepared for the application process, and guide you through the decisions you will need to make throughout. Everyone benefits from a little advice, especially when they're starting out. So, we've put together our top 10 tips to help you ace your applications and kick start Whether you are looking to join us straight from school or with a degree, or even looking for some work experience, we have a programme that is right for you. Summer internships and 12-month placement programmes give you a fantastic opportunity to find out more about careers in professional services, and Our three-year graduate programme will take you from graduate to professionally qualified, opening up a world of opportunity. For anyone with A-Level (or equivalent) qualifications, an apprenticeship helps fast track you to qualification whilst you earn, and if you join straight after A-Levels, Trainee careers# VAT School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - ManchesterManchesterLocation:ManchesterJob ID:TRN26\_075Job type:PermanentTime type:Full timeJob ID:TRN26\_075Categories:TaxJob type:Permanent More than you expectedThe UK member firms of Grant Thornton are part of global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms, made up of some 76,000 in over 150 countries. We're a team of independent thinkers who put quality, inclusion and integrity first. All around the world we bring a different experience to our clients. A better experience. One that delivers the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond. Personal, proactive, and agile. That's Grant Thornton. Job Description: Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start. Tax professionals are analysts, advisers, and forward-thinkers. They stay ahead of constantly evolving tax changes, helping businesses adapt, stay compliant, and make informed decisions. Our tax teams don't just respond to change, they help shape the way organisations move forward while keeping them informed every step of the way. Our tax practice is made up of over 15 specialist teams and more than 40 partners, working with clients across sectors like technology, financial services, and not-for-profit. When you join our tax service line, you'll be driven by curiosity - keen to understand the challenges our clients face and help them navigate what's right for their business. You'll tackle complex problems, grow through hands-on experience, and be supported every step of the way. There will be challenges along the way, but that's where you'll thrive - and that's how you'll make an impact. In our VAT team , you'll help clients navigate complex UK and global VAT rules, optimise their tax position, and manage risk in a fast-changing digital landscape. With VAT becoming a growing focus worldwide, you'll support businesses expanding into new markets and international supply chains, helping them stay compliant and avoid costly errors At Grant Thornton , we're looking for actively curious , purposefully driven , and candid but kind individuals who want to shape the future of business - not follow it. Our four-year tax school leaver programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, a professional qualification, and a chance to make a real impact on businesses. What you'll do Here's a glimpse of what you'll experience during your first four years: • Work with a variety of clients , from household names to innovative start-ups, providing VAT and customs advice whilst ensuring compliance with VAT rules. • Get involved from day one , contributing to real tax projects - not just observing - and making a meaningful impact early on. • Take on responsibility quickly , owning tasks that stretch your thinking and build your confidence. • Collaborate with experienced colleagues , ensuring compliance with VAT rules and identifying opportunities for efficiencies to be made across our client's reporting processes and supply chains. • Draft clear, concise written advice , in report or memo format, and analyse clients' VAT data using Excel to support informed decision-making. • Learn every day on the job , with guidance from mentors and a structured training programme to build your technical, digital and professional skills. • Study with support , with dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your ATT and CTA qualifications. Who we're looking for We've got a flexible approach to academic entry requirements, and we'll consider these alongside your strengths and motivations. We're looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas, and go beyond expectations. • Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions. • Innovative problem solvers with a sharp eye for data and detail. • 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. What you'll get Kickstart your career with a structured four-year programme designed to give you real-world experience from day one. • 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