School students looking for work experience placements are being invited to apply to Foot Anstey LLP, the national law firm.

The company has announced the launch of two new work experience programmes dedicated to activating and accelerating a new generation of lawyers and helping create more diversity in the profession. The firm's Activate Programme is open to all Year 12 and 13 students, while its Accelerate Programme is aimed at undergraduate students. Each scheme has 10 places on offer and will take place over 3.5 days in Foot Anstey's offices in Exeter, Bristol and Southampton.

Participants in each programme will gain valuable insight into what it's like to work in a commercial law firm. They will join one of Foot Anstey's legal teams and benefit from hands-on experience and learn about the day-to-day life of a lawyer and the wider skills needed to pursue a legal career.

Students will also have the opportunity to take part in a recruitment workshop where Foot Anstey's experts will help them develop key skills, such as CV writing, interviewing, and presenting, which will help the Year 12 and 13s when applying for university and all participants when they seek jobs in the future.

Imam Qazi, Partner at Foot Anstey said: "Gaining some practical experience of a professional working environment is a crucial first step for anyone looking towards a career with a commercial law firm. I am delighted we are able to launch our Activate and Accelerate programmes for ambitious sixth formers and undergraduates.

"I am particularly conscious of the additional barriers faced by students from disadvantaged social backgrounds, so one of the aims of these programmes is to help level the playing field and give a diverse range of talented individuals an opportunity to shine."

Debbie Moors, Early Careers Specialist at Foot Anstey, said: "The Activate and Accelerate programmes offer a great opportunity to students located close to our offices. We pride ourselves on helping to nurture future talent and these programmes are open to all those eligible, irrespective of their background. The programmes will help bolster the amazing talent we have in the South West."

Applications for the Year 12 and 13 Activate Programme are now open and close on 25 February 2022 and the Accelerate Programme for undergraduates opens on 1 March 2022 and close on 22 April 2022.

Foot Anstey will be working with schools located near its office to encourage students to apply to the programme.