First cohort of students graduate from Aston University’s Pathways to Law programme

The first cohort of Aston University students have graduated from the final module of the Pathways to Law programme, an initiative which aims to support local students from under-represented backgrounds towards a career in law.

• The initiative aims to support local students from under-represented backgrounds towards a career in law
• The group of 33 students embarked on the programme in January 2023
• Each student was involved in a mini graduation and received a certificate of their achievement.

The 18-month programme was initiated by Aston University in partnership with law firm Shoosmiths and is supported by Virgin Media O2 and the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX).

The group of 33 students embarked on the programme in January 2023, many of whom come from low socio-economic backgrounds.

During the programme, students receive a series of guidance, information and law taster sessions, including a third module on professionalism, networking and employability. 

To celebrate their success in the programme, each student was involved in a mini graduation and received a certificate of their achievement. 

Ocean, a 17 year old student from Central St Michaels Sixth Form College on the Pathways to Law programme, said: 

“I loved my day of work experience with Shoosmiths because it gave me accurate insight to what the different teams do within the law firm, which allowed me to make a more educated decision as to what kind of law I would want to work in.

“Throughout the day, Shoosmiths' ethos of equality and being supportive showed through very effectively. 

“In the afternoon the other work experience students and I were split up and each paired with member of staff from different areas of commercial law. I had an amazing time with the mentor I was placed with and got the chance to look through and organise discovery documents.”

Alex Bishop partner and co-head of Shoosmiths’ Birmingham office said: “Social mobility is very important to Shoosmiths and the Pathways programme has been an effective means for us to continue making a difference within our local community.

“We were delighted to partner with our client Virgin Media O2 and with CILEX to explore broader legal opportunities and showcase the routes available to young people who are looking into a career in professional services.

“The energy, enthusiasm and talent of the students in this cohort was inspiring. Hearing of the various social mobility challenges they face has also given us plenty of food for thought on how we as a firm can support them and tailor our offering.”