PRIME Student Review

A year long program consisting of a week placement (this was on zoom due to the pandemic), mentoring / coaching sessions as well as tutoring opportunities. Had the chance to apply for their SPARK scheme - a paid, first year scheme which gave you the opportunity to progress to a training contract offer.

I, most importantly, gained legal experience. Working in case studies during our placements and reviewing documents allowed me to gain skills which I utilise in my current role. Furthermore, general office skills were important. I learned practical skills such as communication, giving presentations - how to not only engage but make it clear that you are doing so.

I really enjoyed this placement. I was able to meet a great group of like minded people who I did the scheme alongside, as well as multiple networking opportunities within the firm itself. It was a genuinely great social mobility scheme and one that I could not recommend enough.

It was super well organised. Even when we had to shift to Zoom, the communication was strong and days ran faultlessly. The constant requests for feedback additionally meant that the scheme was being improved whilst we work on it - it was great to not only have the opportunity to provide the feedback but also to see it be taken onboard.

We learned a lot. Several sessions were held with people from varying levels of the firm - from trainees to associates, where we were able to learn their true lived experiences. Furthermore, by working alongside the firm for a year - I feel as though I got a genuine grasp for their culture and how it is to work there.

It’s tricky to answer because it’s not a fault of the scheme - its just a matter of I knew I was set on entering the legal profession prior to taking part. I viewed this as an opportunity to gain additional experience as opposed to something that helped me decide.

This was an unpaid experience which was not ideal but I know that has changed now. However, all travel / accommodation costs for the reunion part of the scheme was reimbursed. We were also sent food parcels as a welcome package which was a lovely addition as we were working remotely.

There were! As it was a group scheme you met others on the scheme and we have a WhatsApp groupchat to this day. Additionally, a social was held with future trainees - which was a great opportunity to network and discuss their route from an ACCESS placement to a training contract with the firm.

Yes

It’s a genuinely stellar program that allows for superb networking opportunities and so much experience gained. Though I currently work with another firm and therefore do not work with clifford chance anymore, I credit ACCESS for the development of so many skills which permitted me to gain a solicitor apprenticeship.

My biggest for any application is letting individuality shine through. Obviously, do not let your professionalism slip however - this person may be reading 100,200 applications this day; what is going to make YOURS stand out? How are you going to make sure they’ remember yours? Ensure you’re well researched on the firm as well as current affairs.