We are looking to offer a unique opportunity to committed students who are interested in pursuing a career in the legal sector or professional services who are from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Our Career Start programme is designed to support young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds over a 5-year period, helping them to build a solid understanding of legal careers and develop essential employability skills. Here are some key points about the programme:

  • Students join the programme in Year 12 and in the first year, they complete a mentoring module over 3 months and two weeks of paid work experience at a Charles Russell Speechlys office during the summer. The programme is available across our UK offices in London, Guildford, and Cheltenham.
  • In the subsequent years (2-5), the programme continues to offer students a wide range of support, including UCAS/Apprenticeship application assistance and skills workshops following their academic or career journey.
  • As our programme aims to widen access to opportunities, we have eligibility criteria in place. Students will need to be in Year 12, attended a non-selective state school and meet one of the following:
    • they would be the first generation in their family to attend University (if this is their chosen route)
    • be eligible for free school meals currently, or have been within the last six years
    • be either a full-time or part-time carer
    • have come to the UK as a refugee or asylum seeker
    • have been, or previously have been in local authority care 

Applications for the programme open on Monday 21st October and will be open for two weeks. Interested students will need to complete an online application form, and if shortlisted, obtain a reference from a teacher, and they will be invited for a 20-minute virtual interview via zoom with a member of our team. Applications for the Career Start Programme are now open via our website or this link.  https://charlesrussellspeechlyscandidate.reach-ats.com/258962TST 

Valuing Careers

  • Individuals: Career development can support individuals throughout their education and career; facilitating positive transitions, building career management skills and fostering career wellbeing.
  • The economy: Career development can support the economy by improving the efficiency of the labour market and promoting effective skills/knowledge development. 
  • Society: Career development can benefit society by promoting social justice and equity in education and work for all members of the community.

do you need advice

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to arrange a careers interview or require further information. Mrs S Beeton, Head of Careers sbeeton@sphs.uk.com