ACCESS

A four-day virtual work experience placement designed to introduce you to Clifford Chance and the legal sector. You’ll explore our key practice areas and gain insights into different legal careers — from barristers to in-house lawyers. You’ll also begin developing core business skills that are essential for any future career. Held entirely virtually, this placement is accessible wherever you are and is paid £400 for the week.

You’ll be matched with a dedicated mentor. This will be a Clifford Chance lawyer, trainee, or future trainee — who will support you throughout the two-year programme. You’ll also receive guidance and training on how to get the most out of mentoring, with your mentor offering valuable insights, advice, and encouragement every step of the way.

ACCESS Experience is a unique five-day programme delivered by the Social Mobility Business Partnership (SMBP). You’ll spend time with five different companies across sectors like retail, media, and sport — gaining real insight into how law, finance, and business come together in each industry. You’ll also take part in immersive workshops to build your skills and commercial awareness. This experience is paid £500 for the week.

Academic excellence is key to joining Clifford Chance, so all ACCESS students can receive one-to-one tutoring in a subject of your choice, delivered by a tutor with specialist knowledge. Lessons take place online via the Peppo platform and are designed to fit your schedule and learning style. Once you’ve chosen your subject, we’ll match you with a tutor who can provide targeted, relevant support to help you succeed.

ACCESS Action gives you the chance to make an immediate impact in your community by working with Tender, a charity focused on ending domestic abuse, sexual violence, and harassment. You’ll attend a workshop on healthy relationships as you prepare for university, followed by the opportunity to become a Tender youth ambassador — joining a movement for respect and safety.

This part of ACCESS supports your transition from school to university. You’ll take part in group sessions with university admissions teams and other experts, covering how to approach UCAS and craft a strong personal statement.

You’ll also hear from our future trainees currently at university, who’ll share practical tips on preparing for uni life — including studying, budgeting, and settling in.

After ACCESS, you’ll remain part of an exclusive and supportive community — whatever career path you choose. Each year, you’ll be invited to: ACCESS Reunion, an in-person networking event, where you can build connections and meet Clifford Chance ACCESS alumni from your chosen university.

You’ll have ACCESS to group skills sessions plus dedicated 1:1 conversations with a member of our Early Talent Acquisition Team where we’ll focus on your career development. These touchpoints will keep you connected with the firm, and if you decide to apply for our SPARK scheme, we’ll provide the support to guide you through the process.

If you have the potential to be a lawyer, we’re here to help you unlock it. You’ll receive executive coaching through small group discussions on current affairs, webinars with application tips, personalised interview coaching, and expert guidance—all delivered by Rare Recruitment, experts in Early Talent recruitment.

Our virtual and in-person events will cover a wide range of topics - from application guidance to career development insights, and each event is designed to support you through the recruitment process.

Our award-winning virtual internships are valuable resources to help you explore a career in law and whether it is the right fit for you. Gain firsthand insight into a lawyer's responsibilities and access learning materials created by our experts.