A WORK experience scheme at a Newcastle law firm, which has previously seen applicants rise through the ranks, is now looking for new students to apply.
Burnetts at Dean Street, Newcastle has been running its innovative scheme for more than 20 years and it is now offering places on the programme to year 12 and 13 students.
The scheme has helped many current lawyers take the first steps towards their chosen career, with many of Burnetts’ Associates, Senior Associates and three current Partners joining the firm through it.
Successful applicants get one week’s experience working across five departments, along with receiving a £25 book token. Those who are invited back can return the following year for more experience – and another book token.
Anyone who then goes on to study for a law degree will get the opportunity to apply for paid summer work and to apply for a period of qualifying work experience and, if successful, complete their qualifications as a solicitor.
The work experience scheme gives young people hands-on skills and experience and a real insight into how each department – and the firm overall – operates.
Students are assigned a mentor who guide them through the process and will regularly check in with them.
Three of Burnetts’ current Partners and Heads of Department Richard Miller, Robbie Mather and James Johnston, all joined the firm originally through the work experience scheme when they were just 16 years old.
Investing in local talent and promoting internally are all concepts that lie at the heart of Burnetts and help to shape the unique culture that sets it apart from other law firms.
Nick Gutteridge, Burnetts’ Managing Partner, who leads the work experience scheme said: “Our work experience scheme is our legacy as a firm; we are very active in the community and mentoring the next generation of lawyers is a part of that commitment.
“We believe strongly in training and retaining the local talent we have in the North East and strive to be a part of developing their skills and experience not just on a professional level, but on a personal level too.”
The work experience scheme is now open. To find out more, visit www.burnetts.co.uk.