Business Services Associate Review
at Grant Thornton
Degree Apprenticeship
Accounting
Milton Keynes
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
4.1 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
In my role, I support the preparation and delivery of year‑end financial statements for a wide range of clients, primarily under FRS 102 and the small companies regime. My day‑to‑day work involves reviewing client records, preparing working papers, drafting accounts, and identifying any queries or issues that require follow‑up. I assist in analysing financial information, preparing supporting schedules, and ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards. I also communicate regularly with clients and team members to obtain information, resolve queries, and progress files efficiently. Overall, my role focuses on delivering accurate, high‑quality financial reporting and supporting the wider team throughout the compliance process.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I do enjoy my programme, particularly the opportunities it gives me to develop my technical skills and gain real hands‑on experience. At the same time, it can be quite stressful at points, especially when balancing workload, deadlines, and study commitments. However, the support from my team and the structure of the programme help me manage this, and overall I feel the experience is rewarding and worthwhile.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes, I’ve developed a range of new skills and strengthened existing ones throughout my programme. My technical knowledge has grown significantly, particularly in the preparation of FRS 102 accounts, understanding financial statements, and working through tax computations. I’ve also improved my analytical skills through reviewing supporting documents, identifying issues, and applying professional judgement. In addition, I’ve developed stronger communication and organisational skills, especially when managing queries, liaising with clients, and balancing deadlines. Overall, I feel I’ve progressed both technically and personally.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is generally well‑structured, with a clear progression route and support when needed. Training sessions, study periods, and practical work are planned thoughtfully, which helps me stay organised. At times the structure can feel intense, especially during busier periods, but the framework itself is strong and helps me manage expectations.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I feel that I receive a good level of support from my employer. My manager and wider team are approachable, willing to answer questions, and provide guidance when I’m unsure about something. There are also regular check‑ins and opportunities to discuss progress, which makes me feel supported throughout the programme. Overall, the support I receive helps me stay confident in my development.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I feel I receive a good level of support from my training provider. The tutors are responsive, the resources are clear, and there is always someone available to help when I have questions about the course material or exam preparation. The structured guidance and regular check‑ins make the qualification process feel much more manageable.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel that my qualification has helped me perform better in my role by giving me a stronger understanding of the underlying accounting principles that I apply day‑to‑day. The content from my training provider often links directly to the tasks I complete at work, such as preparing accounts, understanding adjustments, and analysing financial information. This makes the work more intuitive and increases my confidence when tackling new or more complex areas.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, there are a range of extra‑curricular activities available at work. These include social events, team‑building activities, and occasional networking opportunities organised by different departments. There are also firm‑wide initiatives, such as charity events and seasonal celebrations, which provide a good chance to meet colleagues from across the business. These activities help create a more relaxed environment outside of day‑to‑day work and support relationship‑building across teams.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Grant Thornton to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Grant Thornton because the culture is supportive, the people are approachable, and there are good opportunities to learn and grow. I’ve had a positive experience with my team and feel that the environment encourages development and collaboration.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Grant Thornton?
Do your research on the service line you’re applying for and be ready to talk about why it interests you. Grant Thornton values people who show initiative, so be prepared to give examples of where you’ve taken ownership or solved problems. Most importantly, be yourself—culture fit and communication skills are just as important as technical knowledge.
