In keeping with the Society’s desire to be inclusive and encourage entry to the profession from all backgrounds, Year 12 students from all schools and colleges across Merseyside were invited to attend the annual event, held for the sixth time, on 12th February 2020. The President of Liverpool Law Society, Julie O’Hare, welcomed over 120 pupils and teachers from 19 schools to the Liverpool city centre Marriott Hotel.
A panel of speakers from key institutions across the city outlined the various entry routes into the Law – from the traditional university route to the modern apprenticeship route, and other options in between. Christina Millan from The Legal Step Up Programme explained during the afternoon that the law is open to everyone from all different backgrounds, and support networks are in place to help offer everyone equal opportunities.
The thanks of the Society go to the sponsors, exhibitors and speakers that supported the event: 7 Harrington Street Chambers, CILEx, DWF, Liverpool John Moores University, Merseyside Junior Lawyers Division, University of Law, the University of Liverpool, Liverpool Hope University and the Legal Step Up Programme. Directors of Liverpool Law Society were also present during the refreshment break and it was pleasing to see all stands very busy during the interval, with representatives speaking to the students and teachers, answering their questions.
The feedback received from the students who attended the event was invariably highly positive. A few of the comments received appear below:
- “I found all presentations interesting and useful for clarifying some of my pre-existing ideas whilst also opening my eyes to new future possibilities” Student from Upton Hall School FCJ
- “I have learnt that you don’t have to be from any certain background to become a lawyer and there is a variety of opportunities available for everyone” Student from Notre Dame Catholic College
- “I found that each speaker had a different thing to say which was helpful. Their own experiences which they shared were also helpful.” Isabelle Black, Student at Sacred Heart Catholic College
- “Really helpful about what is important and how to enrich not only your university applications but also what helps to make you stand out post-education” Sophie Stevens, Student at Sacred Heart Catholic College
- “The students I’ve brought along are buzzing with interest and excited to learn more about the legal profession. Great for them to compare university vs apprenticeship routes” Laura Smith, Teacher at Weatherhead High School
- “Different peoples personal experiences was really beneficial to motivate and give a clearer path to where I want to go and how I can get there” Student from Birkenhead Sixth Form College
- “I have a better insight to law and I am considering different types of law, not just the straight law degree” Courtney McMahon, Student from Bellerive FCJ Catholic College
- “This is a great event – students are given unbiased information and are advised about all the different training and education routes” Gayle Hall, Teacher from Notre Dame Catholic College
We are looking forward to next year’s event already.
Education & Charities Committee
Liverpool Law Society