Law firms unite to offer work experience to school pupils

It all started out with an ambition to establish formal Partnerships between every school in Bristol.

The Bristol Legal community has joined forces to collaborate on a shared goal:  improving access to careers in the legal sector. 

So far, 15 firms have joined a new, Early Careers Network, with the aim of collaborating on projects designed to improve social mobility in the sector.

Last week, a group of firms ran a week long insight week for Y10 pupils, designed to give them hands-on, real life experience of working in law.

The firms welcomed students from Downend High School, Mangotsfield School, Bradley Stoke Community School and Brimsham Green.  Students spent time at VWV, Bevan Brittan, Michelmores, Clarke Wilmott, Womble Bond Dickinson and Foot Anstey and also met with Ellen Marsh from The University of Law.

The week was a mixture of activities, legal exercises, employability and team building skills.  Not only did students learn about a career in law, but also the array of other roles within the sector.

All firms found the week hugely rewarding and successful.  We know that this is the start of something really special for the legal sector .

Our appeal is for other law firms to join us on our journey by collaborating with us on this hugely important mission.  We must all take responsibility for inspiring the next generation in our sector and raise aspirations of young people in our communities.

If you’d like to join the network, please contact Sarah Cook, Sam Lee or Ellen Marsh.