A&O launches Black Heritage Insight Programme

James Partridge, Graduate Recruitment Partner and Training Principal comments: “The past year has given us a real opportunity to reflect on the racial inequalities that exist in our society and on how they affect opportunities and experiences in the workplace. Taking time to understand these issues is important, but the key now is to act and, as a firm, try to do and be better.

“The launch of our Black Heritage Insight Programme is part of our efforts not only to improve access to A&O for black and black-mixed heritage students, but also to give these young people the skills and networks they need to flourish in the wider legal sector. We know that there is outstanding young black talent out there and we want to be an attractive option to them.”

This new programme is an addition to the number of initiatives already in place for students from ethnic minority backgrounds.  In 2020, A&O launched the Black Aspiring Solicitors Mentoring Scheme in partnership with Aspiring Solicitors to provide a mentorship programme to a small group of black or black-mixed heritage students. Students attend bespoke workshops covering everything from a tailored application masterclass, interview masterclass and how to tackle commercial awareness questions.

A&O also runs a range of programmes in partnership with Rare recruitment, and hosts an independent ‘inclusivity series’ which seeks to educate and empower students when it comes to A&O’s work across all strands of the D&I agenda.  

On the 24 May, A&O launched: All In - its global commitment to becoming a more diverse and inclusive organisation, which is the next step in the firm’s push to create an inclusive culture that celebrates and embraces difference. 

Students wishing to register their interest in the Black Heritage Insight Programme can do so here.