Schofield Sweeney is enhancing its commitment to fostering new legal professionals by welcoming a new group of solicitor apprentices and trainees.
- The firm received a record number of applications this year, promoting social mobility through its training programmes.
- This marks the firm’s second cohort of solicitor apprentices, selected from over 140 applicants for a six-year programme.
- The new apprentices will gain experience in various departments, reflecting the firm’s diverse legal expertise.
- Three new trainees have also joined the firm, underscoring its dedication to nurturing young legal talent.
Schofield Sweeney, renowned for its commitment to workforce diversity and development, has embraced a new cadre of legal apprentices and trainees. Recognised as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work, the firm has marked a significant year with an unprecedented number of applications for its training programmes designed to enhance social mobility. These programmes offer alternative pathways into the legal profession, demonstrating the firm’s forward-thinking approach to nurturing talent.
In its second cohort, four solicitor apprentices were selected from over 140 applicants. These apprentices embark on a six-year Level 6 apprenticeship programme in partnership with BPP University. Simon Glazebrook, partner and apprenticeship principal, expressed enthusiasm for the new arrivals, stating, “These aspiring lawyers have all excelled through the recruitment process and we are really excited to have them on board.” He highlighted the comprehensive support structure and diverse legal expertise they will be exposed to, positioning the firm as a leader in legal education and career progression.
The solicitor apprentices will commence their careers in various departments across Schofield Sweeney. Anna Hall will contribute to the environmental and regulatory team in Leeds, Lucy Sheehan joins the real estate team in Bradford, Harriet Simon enters contentious probate in Huddersfield, and Florence Wharton begins in property litigation in Leeds. This inclusive approach aims to equip apprentices with a broad spectrum of legal knowledge and skills.
Additionally, the firm has welcomed three new trainees to its ranks. Emily Brown, a graduate from Northumbria University with prior experience as a paralegal at Jet2, joins the real estate team in Huddersfield. Holly Goldsborough-Pike, who completed her studies at Newcastle University, begins her first seat in dispute resolution in Leeds. Emma Davies, already a part of the firm since 2022 as a paralegal in Bradford, secured her training contract through the internal recruitment process and will remain with the corporate team. Leo Jones-Rowe, partner and training principal, noted the importance of investing in these individuals: “We invest a lot of resources to nurture these individuals to become our future partners, and we can’t wait to see them grow and achieve their ambitions with us.”
These strategic appointments underscore Schofield Sweeney’s commitment to investing in the next generation of legal professionals, ensuring a bright future for the firm and its clients.
