Liverpool University introduces a pioneering four-year degree in collaboration with six law firms, aimed at enhancing students’ practical experience.
- Thirteen students transition from a traditional three-year degree to a year-long industry placement.
- Placements at well-known law firms ensure students receive hands-on experience while earning a Living Wage.
- The initiative targets students from under-represented backgrounds, aiming to break entry barriers into the legal profession.
- Law firms anticipate mutual benefits, including fresh perspectives and future recruitment opportunities.
In a significant move to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience, Liverpool University has partnered with six prominent law firms to offer a ‘Law with a Year in Industry’ degree. This new four-year programme, introduced by the university, provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in high-calibre legal environments.
A cohort of thirteen third-year students has transitioned from their traditional degree path to embrace a year-long placement in esteemed legal firms such as Brabners, DWF, Hill Dickinson, In-House Legal Solutions, Taylor Wessing, and Weightmans. These placements, lasting a minimum of 40 weeks, adhere to the real Living Wage standards, reflecting the programme’s commitment to fair remuneration for student work.
This groundbreaking initiative is particularly aimed at students from under-represented backgrounds, with the objective of dismantling perceived barriers to entry into the legal field. It echoes similar programmes offered by Queen Mary University of London, which also collaborates with various legal entities to provide students with essential work experience opportunities.
Professor Valsamis Mitsilegas, the dean of Liverpool University’s School of Law and Social Justice, described the initiative as transformative, emphasising its role in broadening students’ horizons and preparing them for future success. This sentiment is shared by Saleem Fazal, a partner at Taylor Wessing, who highlighted the dual benefits for both students and law firms, including the infusion of fresh perspectives and ideas into practical learning.
Further underscoring the importance of the initiative, Jakob Sexton of Brabners expressed the firm’s commitment to offering employment and placement opportunities to students. The programme is poised to break down barriers to entry in the legal profession, opening access to students who might have previously perceived such a career path as unattainable.
Paul Maddock from DWF, another participating firm, stated that the initiative not only opens doors for students but also provides them with meaningful, real-world experience. By rotating through various legal teams, students are expected to gain comprehensive insights into the functioning and dynamics of different legal operations.
This collaboration marks a significant advancement in legal education, equipping students with both academic knowledge and invaluable industry experience.
