The National Audit Office is an independent body responsible for auditing government. The NAO also produces Value-For-Money studies that examine how well public money is spent.

The NAO is an organisation you read about all the time, without realising it. We are mentioned almost daily in the media as the author of reports on an incredible array of subjects. Many of our studies are of vital importance to the nation.

Training and development
We are one of very few organisations outside the private sector to offer graduates Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) Accountancy training. Our three-year professional training programme is built around annual block release periods, spent at college full time, on full pay, with full funding for all course fees and materials.

When you’re not studying, your knowledge is consolidated by the challenging practical experience you gain in your role as Assistant Auditor. This develops your personal and technical skills to the full; you also benefit from a varied programme of internal courses that supplements this on-the-job learning.
Once qualified, you’ll have the choice of staying in Financial Audit, specialising in our Value-For-Money work or combining the two. Depending on your work performance, we may offer you a permanent contract as an Audit Principal; after this stage, promotion is based on merit and may bring opportunities to work abroad.

Our culture
In terms of our personality as an organisation, we’re very proud of our friendly and supportive culture. It’s one that inspires loyalty, affection and a strong sense of camaraderie. The work is certainly demanding, but no one here is ever left to sink or swim.
We’re a team in the truest sense, and a diverse team at that, with people from many different backgrounds with many different degrees. With such diversity, the culture and the involving nature of what we do, it’s no surprise the NAO provides such a rewarding environment.

Fast facts

Main business activity
Audit.

Number of employees
Approximately 1,000.

Number of graduate vacancies per year
70.

Work location
London, Newcastle.

Degree required
Any; 2.1.

Occupation area
Assistant auditors.

Salary and benefits
£25,276 (London), £20,109 (Newcastle).
Benefits include a generous pension scheme, free life assurance, childcare vouchers and an interest-free season ticket loan.

Application procedure
Online. Deadlines: See our website for our next available intake date.

National Audit Office
157–197 Buckingham
Palace Road
London SW1W 9SP
T 020 7798 7231
(24-hour answerphone)
E graduaterecruitment@nao.gsi.gov.uk
www.nao.org.uk/graduates