Private Tax (Trusts and Estates) School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2026) - Manchester

More than you expected

The 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.

Our GT Private Assurance - Trusts and Estates team specialises in looking after all aspects of the tax affairs of trusts and estates. Working closely with dynamic individuals is an important part of the role and you'll need to be able to build rewarding relationships quickly. If you are looking for variety, and balance between tax compliance and advisory work this is the role for you.

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, managing a client portfolio and dealing directly with trustees and beneficiaries.
• Get involved from day one, preparing the annual trust and estate accounts and tax returns, and dealing with other HMRC reporting such as Inheritance Tax reporting and the trust registration service.
• Take on responsibility quickly, owning tasks that stretch your thinking and build your confidence - carrying out technical research, producing tax reports to advise clients and liaising with HM Revenue & Customs on their behalf.
• Collaborate with experienced colleagues, having the opportunity to work on advisory projects, ranging from dealing with day-to-day queries from your clients to preparing the tax computations for non UK trusts, to advising on complex structuring projects and family wealth planning.
• Enjoy variety between tax compliance and advisory work, with opportunities to take on diverse client projects and build broad expertise. Keeping up to date with and monitoring developments in the UK and International tax regulation.
• 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 organise 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.