DWF will no longer be asking for specific A-level/Scottish Highers requirements for graduate recruits, it will instead ask for "good A-Levels/Scottish Highers or equivalent". The change comes in order to attract the best talent, specifically those who may have chosen not to apply to DWF due to the previously high entry requirements.
James Szerdy, Graduate Recruitment Partner at DWF, said, "Since implementing the Rare Contextual Recruitment system in 2017, we have been able to look at an applicant's achievements in the context that they were gained which has enriched our recruitment process and has given us a clearer idea of candidate potential. We want to take the next step towards a more contextual assessment, ensuring that we are attracting and recruiting talented individuals from all backgrounds."
Ty Jones, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Engagement at DWF, said, "For too long social background has impacted an individual's likelihood of working in the legal sector. As a leading Social Mobility Employer, we are taking steps to dismantle the barriers to accessing and progressing within the profession. This change is a positive step to becoming a more inclusive employer."
DWF was one of the UK's leading law firms that recently signed up to the Race Fairness Commitment, an initiative that aims to ensure fairness at work for people of all ethnic backgrounds and that everyone has the equal chance to succeed. Further research published by Rare Contextual Recruitment shows that candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds on average perform worse at A-Level but better at university. This change will challenge the traditional route into law, both now and in the future and allow DWF to continue hire the best talent.
In October 2019 DWF also ranked 16th in The Social Mobility Employer Index. The Index is the creation of the Social Mobility Foundation and ranks Britain’s employers on the actions they are taking to ensure they are open to accessing and progressing talent from all backgrounds. DWF was recognised for the commendable work it has taken to tackle this and enable those from lower socio-economic backgrounds to succeed.
DWF's graduate applications will open in two weeks on Thursday, 3 September.