Private Assurance Tax School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Milton Keynes

Grant Thornton (UK); Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global audit and advisory firm in Milton Keynes seeks candidates for a four-year tax school leaver program. Join to manage client portfolios and prepare tax returns, with support for professional qualifications. Ideal for individuals eager to contribute fresh ideas and grow in a collaborative environment. Competitive salary and benefits are included.

Benefits

Fully funded professional qualification

Paid study leave

Exclusive discounts on shopping and wellness

Opportunities for mentoring and volunteering

Competitive salary and benefits package

Qualifications

• Academic flexibility considered along with strengths and motivations.
• Motivated to grow and take initiative.
• Ability to manage and flex time efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Work with a variety of clients.
• Manage a client portfolio and prepare tax returns.
• Collaborate with experienced colleagues on advisory projects.
• Support clients through their personal tax affairs.
• Learn on the job with guidance from mentors.

Skills

Curious minds

Innovative problem solvers

Collaborative partners

Effective communicators

Self-leaders

Career-minded contributors

Job description

The UK member firms of Grant Thornton are part of a global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms, made up of some 76,000 people 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.

Overview

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. Our GT Private team specialises in looking after the personal tax affairs of our exciting client base.

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, building strong relationships and providing a first-class experience.
• Get involved from day one, managing a client portfolio and preparing their annual tax return.
• Take on responsibility quickly, owning tasks that stretch your thinking and build your confidence.
• Collaborate with experienced colleagues, working on advisory projects giving our clients expert tailored support to identify tax efficiencies and opportunities to reduce their exposure to tax liabilities.
• Supporting clients through their personal tax affairs, ensuring they are well organised and compliant.
• 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 you every step of the way.
• Our approach to how we work helps you balance life, learning, and work.
• Exclusive discounts on shopping, gyms, and wellbeing services.
• Opportunities to give back through mentoring, volunteering, or fundraising initiatives.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including:
  • Extra holiday options (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays)
  • Life assurance
  • Private medical insurance

What we expect from you

As part of your training with us, you will be provided with study leave to support you with completing your professional qualification. Completing a professional qualification is a substantial commitment and it’s worth taking this into consideration before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of your working hours. You’ll also be provided with study leave in the run up to your exams. You’ll need to be focused, committed, and organised your time well to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.

Join the firm that’s shaping the accountants of the future.

We’re growing fast, and we want you to grow with us. With digital-first innovation and an inclusive culture that powers progress, this is your chance to shape what’s next.

This isn’t just a school leaver programme.
It’s the start of something bigger.