ACCESS

Following a successful ACCESS Assessment Day, you'll be invited to an in-person launch event to celebrate your place on the programme. This is your opportunity to meet former ACCESS participants, current trainees and members of our Early Talent Acquisition team, who will introduce you to the programme and help you understand what to expect over the next two years.

You'll also meet other students in your ACCESS cohort, start building your professional network and begin forming connections that will support you throughout your ACCESS journey.

We recognise the important role that families, carers and teachers can play in supporting your ambitions. You're welcome to bring a parent, guardian or teacher to the event so they can learn more about the programme, understand the opportunities available to you and gain insight into the commitment you'll be making as you explore a future career in law.

This four-day hybrid work experience programme is designed to introduce you to Clifford Chance, the legal sector and the wide range of career opportunities available in commercial law.

You'll explore our global product groups and gain insight into different legal career paths, from barristers and solicitors to in-house lawyers. Along the way, you'll begin developing the core business, commercial and professional skills that are valuable in any future career.

Combining virtual learning with in-person sessions at our London office, this paid work experience opportunity offers flexibility wherever you are based, while providing first-hand insight into life at a leading international law firm.

Participants receive £110 per day.

You'll be matched with a dedicated mentor from Clifford Chance who will support you throughout the two-year ACCESS programme. As a current trainee, your mentor will provide first-hand insights into studying law, developing your career and navigating the path to the legal profession.

You'll also receive guidance and training on how to get the most from the mentoring relationship, helping you build confidence and make the most of the opportunities available to you. Throughout the programme, your mentor will offer advice, encouragement and practical support, sharing their experiences and helping you achieve your personal and professional goals.

ACCESS Experience is a unique five-day work experience programme delivered in partnership with the Social Mobility Business Partnership (SMBP).

You'll gain first-hand insight into a range of industries by spending time with five different organisations across sectors such as retail, media and sport, helping you understand how law and business intersect in different commercial environments.

Alongside your work experience, you'll take part in immersive workshops designed to develop your professional skills, commercial awareness and understanding of the business world.

Participants receive £550 for the week.

Academic excellence is an important part of success at Clifford Chance, which is why all ACCESS participants can benefit from one-to-one tutoring in a subject of their choice.

Delivered by specialist tutors through the Peppo online learning platform, these personalised sessions are designed to complement your studies and support your academic development. Lessons are tailored to your schedule, learning style and individual goals.

Once you've selected your subject, we'll match you with an expert tutor who can provide targeted guidance and help you achieve your academic potential.

ACCESS Action gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your local community by engaging with Clifford Chance's Community Outreach and Pro Bono teams and initiatives. Through hands-on projects and activities, you'll gain insight into how legal expertise can be used to create positive social impact and support individuals, communities and organisations.

You'll learn more about the role community outreach and pro bono work play within a global law firm, while developing valuable skills and making a tangible contribution alongside your ACCESS cohort.

This element of the ACCESS programme is designed to support your transition from school to university. Through interactive group sessions led by university admissions experts, you'll learn more about the UCAS application process and receive practical guidance on preparing a strong personal statement.

You'll also hear from financial literacy specialists, who will share advice and insights to help you prepare for university life. Topics include studying effectively, managing your budget, understanding student finances and making a confident transition to higher education.

Throughout ACCESS, you'll remain part of an exclusive and supportive community, regardless of the career path you choose.

At the end of each year, you'll be invited to the ACCESS Reunion, an in-person networking event that brings together current ACCESS participants, previous cohorts and Clifford Chance alumni.

It's an opportunity to expand your network, build meaningful professional connections, share experiences and hear from individuals at different stages of their academic and career journeys.

As part of the ACCESS programme, you'll take part in group skills sessions and dedicated one-to-one conversations with members of our Early Talent Acquisition team, focused on supporting your personal and professional development.

These touchpoints are designed to help you build your confidence, develop your career aspirations and stay connected with Clifford Chance throughout the programme. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions, explore your interests and gain guidance on the next steps in your legal career journey.

If you choose to apply for our SPARK programme, we'll provide tailored support and advice throughout the application process, helping you prepare a strong application and understand what to expect at each stage.

If you have the potential to become a lawyer, we're here to help you realise it. Through our partnership with Rare Recruitment, specialists in Early Talent recruitment, you'll receive tailored coaching and guidance designed to support your development and future career ambitions.

You'll take part in small-group discussions exploring current affairs and commercial topics, attend application skills webinars, and receive personalised interview coaching from experienced professionals. Together, these sessions will help you develop your commercial awareness, strengthen your application skills and build the confidence needed to pursue a career in law.