The inaugural ‘Law with a Year in Industry’ programme commenced in September. The programme aims to provide students with the invaluable opportunity of spending the third year of their University course working with leading law firms, gaining real-world legal experience before returning to complete their final year of studies. Students from under-represented backgrounds, or those who believe they would face barriers when entering the world of work were strongly encouraged to apply.
As one of six firms involved, DWF has welcomed six paid placement students to work across various legal teams, giving them hands-on exposure to a range of legal practices.
In a separate development, the global legal business has also welcomed 17 additional apprentices in Liverpool through its insurance solicitor apprentice pathway. The solicitor apprenticeship places aspiring solicitors on a 6 year apprenticeship programme, encompassing an LLB (Hons) in Law and Legal Practice and the SQE. In August 2024, DWF welcomed a record high 32 solicitors apprentices' across the UK and proudly announced Claudia Webb as the business' fourth solicitor to qualify through this apprenticeship route.
Paul Maddock, director at DWF, said: “We are incredibly proud to support the University of Liverpool’s ‘Law with a Year in Industry’ programme. This initiative not only opens doors for students but also ensures they gain meaningful, hands-on experience in a real-world setting. By providing them with opportunities to rotate through various legal teams, we are helping to shape the next generation of legal talent.
"I would also like to welcome our 17 new apprentices through our insurance solicitor apprentice pathway in Liverpool. These initiatives demonstrate DWF’s ongoing commitment to investing in talent and creating long-term career opportunities for future legal professionals.”
Julie Simms, managing partner of DWF in Liverpool, added: “We are absolutely thrilled to support both the University of Liverpool’s Year in Industry programme and the apprentice pathway here in Liverpool. It is fantastic to have the opportunity to support each person on their journey to becoming a lawyer. DWF are passionate about investing in initiatives such as this and we welcome the opportunity to work closely with the University.”
Prof Valsamis Mitsilegas, Dean of the School of Law and Social Justice at the University of Liverpool, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with DWF and other leading law firms on the ‘Law with a Year in Industry’ programme. This initiative is transformative for our students, offering them invaluable practical experience within high-calibre legal environments. By working alongside seasoned professionals, they will not only enhance their legal expertise but also gain vital insights into the real-world challenges and opportunities that define today’s legal landscape. At the School of Law and Social Justice, we are committed to providing opportunities that broaden our students’ horizons, and this partnership is a vital step towards preparing them for future success.”
