Taylor Emmet, a prominent Sheffield law firm, has announced a record number of applications for its 2026 Graduate Training Programme.
- The firm has received over 200 applications, marking a significant milestone in its recruitment efforts.
- Taylor Emmet’s strategic collaboration with local universities enhances its recruitment programme.
- The programme features a thorough selection process and boasts a high retention rate of trainee solicitors.
- Success stories from past trainees demonstrate the programme’s positive impact on careers.
Taylor Emmet, a noted law firm in the Sheffield region, has experienced an unprecedented surge in applications for its Graduate Training Programme, aimed at the 2026 cohort. Over 200 aspiring solicitors have expressed interest, underscoring the firm’s esteemed position within the legal sector.
The firm’s Graduate Training Programme, which began in 2016, offers a comprehensive two-year contract. This allows trainee solicitors to delve into four distinct legal practice areas, focusing significantly on personal and professional growth. Importantly, the programme boasts a remarkable retention rate of 90%, highlighting its effectiveness in fostering long-term careers at Taylor Emmet.
Key to this success is Taylor Emmet’s collaboration with renowned educational institutions such as the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, and the University of Law. This partnership not only augments the firm’s national appeal but also enriches its candidate pool with diverse talent. The selection process is meticulously designed to identify the most promising candidates through interviews, presentations, and teamwork exercises.
Currently, Taylor Emmet nurtures 14 trainee solicitors along with an equal number of individuals engaged in CILEX courses. HR Director Sharna Poxon underscores the programme’s success, attributing the year-on-year increase in applications to a wide array of talented candidates eager to join. Poxon notes, “Not only has the programme been transformational in harnessing a rich pool of talent, but it facilitates strategic planning as we recruit two years in advance.”
Early engagement with future trainees is a pivotal strategy for Taylor Emmet, ensuring that new trainees are well-acquainted with the firm’s operations before their official start. This pre-engagement approach enables them to integrate seamlessly and contribute positively from the outset.
Examples of the programme’s success are plentiful. Former trainee Oliver Simpson, who completed the programme in 2019, exemplifies the potential career trajectory, having recently been promoted to partner. Additionally, the programme significantly contributes to community development by attracting graduates back to Sheffield, which enriches the local talent pool.
Taylor Emmet’s Graduate Programme continues to thrive, bolstering both the firm and local community.