Set to launch with the September 2024 intake of trainees in the firm’s audit practice, Career Launchpad will equip new trainees with essential skills and knowledge.

Starting with an initial 12 weeks of practical and skills-based learning, the programme extends beyond this to set up trainees for future success with dedicated support and training. In a change of tack, for the first time trainees will not have to undertake client facing work during their initial period of training at the firm.

Drawing from extensive research, including insights from young people and feedback from the firm’s trainees, Career Launchpad will address the evolving needs and challenges of new entrants into the workforce.

It recognises the impact of external factors, such as the aftermath of the pandemic and diversity, on work-study balance, mental health, resilience and employee wellbeing, as well as generational differences. 

A survey of 2,000 young people conducted by Grant Thornton in July this year showed that whilst 70% of respondents had undertaken work experience, many still felt underprepared for various workplace aspects, particularly in professional skills like verbal presentation, persuading, influencing, and networking.

Additionally, feedback from the firm’s own trainees highlighted the need for additional training and preparation before engaging in client work. Career Launchpad is designed to bridge these gaps. 

Unlike traditional onboarding programmes, Career Launchpad will provide a balanced approach to professional development for trainees.

Recognising the stress and pressure associated with exam periods, the programme prioritises mental wellbeing and resilience of trainees while, at the same time, preparing them to deliver high quality work.

This means that trainees will not have be involved in client work during the first 12 weeks of their training programme, focusing instead on technical training, exams, professionalism, and building personal resilience. 

Career Launchpad offers trainees the opportunity to demonstrate technical and behavioral skills learned in a simulated environment, allowing them to apply their knowledge in a safe space while enabling the assessment of the programme's effectiveness.

Vicky McLoughlin, audit partner and sponsor for Career Launchpad, said: ‘We are excited about the positive impact Career Launchpad will have on our trainees and are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. 

‘The programme has been developed based on direct feedback from our trainees and the wider audit practice.

‘By providing a supportive foundation and addressing the softer skills essential for success, we are dedicated to empowering our trainees for a successful and fulfilling career journey at Grant Thornton. We look forward to the upcoming September launch and the positive outcomes it will bring for our new cohort of trainees.’