Over 70 pupils from six ARK schools took part in mock trials, case reviews and networked with practicing lawyers, barristers and legal executives at a Legal Professions Careers Information Day at the Law Society in London on 22 November. Pupils from Ark, ARK Putney, Burlington Danes, Evelyn Grace, Helenswood and Walworth academies were able to ask questions in workshops, over lunch and at panel sessions hosted by leading legal professionals.
ARK Putney Academy pupil Hayley Belgrave told us, “Today has been good because I was able to speak to solicitors and barristers and learn about the different fields in law. I want to be a barrister because I enjoy debating, defending people and challenging people’s thought process as to why they think they are right. It was interesting working on a case review today and working with other ARK Schools. I would encourage other pupils to come and try it out if they get the chance.” A highlight of the day was listening to an inspirational speech given by the Rt Hon. the Baroness Scotland of Asthal QC about her career and tips on how to succeed.
‘It all starts with you’
Baroness Patricia Scotland QC recalled a time when she was six years old and asked her father a question about justice, when he said to her, “What are you going to do about it? It all starts with you.” She stressed that “what we do really does make a difference.” When asked how she got to where she is today, the former Attorney General replied, “I got here by not being afraid to fail.”
Carla Haslam Vice Principal of ARK Academy told us, “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to hear from real law practitioners. It’s great to see people from similar backgrounds to our students having done so well in their law career and Baroness Scotland was a real inspiration to all!”
Ensuring that background is no barrier
The ARK exclusive event was for pupils interested in a career in law or who are undecided about their future. Organised by the Law Society, The Bar Council and Cilex, it was designed to help students understand the range of careers within law, their entry requirements and qualifications open to them.
Oliver Williams of the Bar Council said, “The Bar Council is committed to ensuring that background is no barrier to a career at the bar. We are delighted to be working with ARK Schools in partnership with the Law Society and Cilex to give young people a taste of the range of careers in law. We are always struck by the maturity and confidence of ARK students at our career days and are only too pleased to be able to communicate the information, advice and guidance needed to reach an informed decision on a career in law.”
Please contact sarah.gregory@arkonline.org for more information about ARK’s career or enrichment programme.