Aspiring lawyers from underrepresented Black and minority ethnic backgrounds are to be given the opportunity to gain experience in the legal field under a new ‘vacation’ scheme launched by law firm Foot Anstey.
Successful applicants will spend a week experiencing what it is like to be a trainee solicitor. They will then be assessed and those that are successful offered a training contract.
Participants in the scheme, called Achieve, will also take part in a series of masterclass sessions to develop their legal skills and commercial understanding.
Foot Anstey group HR director Felix Hebblethwaite, pictured, said: “We are excited to introduce our new Achieve vacation scheme, which reflects our ongoing commitment to improve access to legal careers.
“We understand the importance of gaining hands-on experience in the legal field, and this scheme has been carefully crafted to provide participants with a real taste of what it’s like to work in a law firm.
“Foot Anstey is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within the legal profession and we encourage candidates to apply.”
Key highlights of the scheme include:
- Hands-on experience: Participants will have the opportunity to work on real cases and projects, gaining practical experience and a deeper understanding of various areas of law.
- Mentorship: Each participant will be paired with a dedicated mentor, providing guidance, feedback, and support throughout the scheme.
- Networking opportunities: The scheme will include networking events and interactions with Foot Anstey’s experienced legal professionals, enabling participants to build valuable connections within the industry.
- Training and development: The scheme’s masterclass series will give participants a unique opportunity to understand how to apply legal knowledge in a working environment.
Alongside the Achieve scheme, Foot Anstey runs its Aspire vacation scheme which is open to all eligible candidates. Both schemes will be based across the firm’s Bristol, Exeter and Southampton offices.
The application deadline is 2 January 2024. To find out more about Foot Anstey’s vacation schemes visit: Vacation schemes | Foot Anstey
Foot Anstey, which employs 590 people and also has offices in London, Plymouth, Taunton and Truro, advises clients in sectors spanning development, energy and infrastructure to Islamic finance and retail and consumer.
