Build audit confidence and capability with a practical, expert-led programme tailored for local government finance teams.

This online programme, through a series of practical modules equips public sector finance professionals with tools, insights, and confidence to prepare for and support the annual audit.  This learning platform can support teams who need a refresh of their ways of working, in supporting an audit to helping finance teams work with their auditors to re-build assurance.  The result: stronger documentation, improved financial controls, an achievable timeline and fewer audit queries, where auditors and finance teams work together effectively.

Who is this programme for?

Designed for finance and governance professionals who oversee the financial statements and the audit preparation process. Whether that be:

  • Finance managers/controllers coordinating year‑end close and evidence packs, aiming for more timely, cleaner audits.
  • Newly appointed Heads of Finance/Section 151 officers seeking on‑time accounts and stronger audit committee confidence through re-building assurance.
  • Seeking to improve financial controls and processes to give confidence in finance reports.

The modules support all involved in the audit process including those out with the finance team for example property and estates and capital teams.

What will they learn?

This programme builds the practical capabilities needed to deliver a smooth, timely audit and reduce risk:

  • How to build an audit readiness roadmap and meet statutory deadlines
  • Techniques for preparing good working papers and sufficient audit trails
  • Strategies for managing complex areas like valuations, estimates, and disclosures
  • Best practices for internal controls, risk management, and committee engagement
  • Effective communication and collaboration with auditors and internal teams

By the end of the programme, leaders will be able to take ownership of the audit process, anticipate auditor expectations, and embed a culture of readiness across their teams. They’ll gain the tools to produce high-quality accounts, manage complex audit areas, and engage proactively with auditors.

A dedicated Grant Thornton audit specialist will be assigned to each cohort, providing responsive support and helping participants navigate areas where clarification may be needed.

Key facts

Qualification
Audit Readiness CPD Accredited Training
Duration
90 Minutes
Provider
Grant Thornton
Delivery
Online training. Digital and on-demand
Allocated specialist account manager to support you through the training process
Programme Content
The programme is comprised of seven different learning modules, and a final assessment of readiness to support future learning.
Topics covered include
  • Foundations of Audit
  • Planning for Audit Success
  • Data and Documentation Management
  • Complex areas of the audit
  • Internal Controls & Risk Management
  • Communication & Collaboration
  • Hot Topics
Assessment
Each module includes a knowledge test assessment and key takeaways to support ongoing learning.
Cost
Price upon request

Key benefits

Very practical and focuses on key points. Very useful for teams / staff not used to audits, and it’s a good aid memoir for good practice. I enjoyed completing the course!
S151 Local Authority
testimonial client avatar
Audit success isn’t just about ticking technical boxes, it’s about ownership and leadership. The best councils set their audit committee dates early and expect delivery. They keep pressure on their internal teams and their auditors to meet milestones. In today’s climate of reform, scrutiny, and rising public expectations, audit readiness is no longer a back-office task. It’s a leadership discipline. Councils that treat audit as a strategic priority, not a compliance chore, are the ones that build trust, secure funding, and avoid reputational risk.
Paul Dossett Partner

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