Gordons is thrilled to announce the graduation of its trailblazing apprentices, Tegan Knappy and Kendall Philipson, who have qualified as chartered legal executives.
- This landmark achievement highlights the effectiveness of Gordons’ pioneering apprenticeship scheme, first launched in 2011 to boost social mobility in the legal sector.
- Designed for A-level graduates, the five-year programme has so far trained 36 young professionals.
- With unwavering support from Gordons, Tegan and Kendall have embarked on promising legal careers without incurring student debt.
- Both graduates are now pursuing their specialisations within different areas of law at Gordons.
Gordons, a notable Yorkshire law firm, is celebrating the successful qualification of Tegan Knappy and Kendall Philipson as chartered legal executives. This achievement is a testament to the firm’s innovative apprenticeship scheme, introduced in 2011, which aims to provide opportunities to A-level graduates, enhancing social mobility within the profession.
This pioneering programme spans five years and admits school leavers each September, distinguishing itself as the first of its kind in the UK legal sector. Over its tenure, it has welcomed 36 young individuals, guiding them towards a professional legal career. Tegan and Kendall’s graduation marks another significant milestone in the programme’s history.
Paul Ayre, senior partner at Gordons, expressed immense pride in the programme and its graduates, stating, “We are proud to be known as the law firm that launched the first apprenticeship of its kind in the UK legal sector. However, we are even more proud to have identified 36 bright and ambitious young people and provided them with the opportunity to gain access to a career in the profession.”
Following their apprenticeships, Tegan has chosen to specialise in employment law, while Kendall is focusing on commercial property. Tegan described the apprenticeship as both challenging and rewarding, saying it offers invaluable experience alongside a qualification, allowing participants to avoid university debt. Kendall echoed these sentiments, appreciating the support and mentorship provided by Gordons throughout their journey.
Gordons’ apprenticeship scheme stands as a remarkable alternative to traditional legal education pathways, offering a practical and financially savvy route to becoming a qualified lawyer. It emphasises merit and potential, offering young professionals a supportive environment to thrive and advance within the legal sector.
The success of Tegan and Kendall underscores the value of alternative pathways in legal education, marking a progressive step for the industry.
