Allen & Overy launched the Smart Start Experience in 2009 with the aim of giving young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds access to high quality work experience in the world of business.

Since its launch, the Smart Start Experience has supported over 1,500 young people. As the recipient of many prestigious awards, the Smart Start Experience was the first work experience scheme in the legal sector to receive City & Guilds accreditation. As the programme in 2021 will differ from previous years, please note that City & Guilds will not confirm the programme is Assured until its annual renewal process has been completed after the Smart Start Virtual Week has taken place.

The programme

By participating in the Smart Start Experience, young people gain a real insight into the world of work and learn about the wide range of careers available within a global business such as Allen & Overy. The closing date for Smart Choices (part one of the programme) is 26th Feb.

The Smart Start Virtual Week

The Smart Start Virtual Week provides young people with a five-day timetable of interactive online workshops and group tasks to engage in. Applicants who successfully gain a place on the Smart Start Virtual Week will build on what they learned in the Smart Skills online course and develop essential attributes required to succeed in an international business like Allen & Overy. Successful applicants will be set an overall challenge to complete for the week which will be divided into a series of daily challenges, allowing them to showcase their teamwork and time management abilities. During the week, successful applicants will also understand the importance of building a network of professional contacts with their fellow Smart Start participants.