Thompsons Solicitors has partnered with Sheffield’s two leading universities to support the next generation of lawyers in Yorkshire.

The firm will welcome second year students Alannah Collins and Callum Shepherd to experience legal life at Thompsons after they were specially selected by their tutors at Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield, respectively.

Ms Collins was picked after achieving the highest grade on the second year module ‘Dispute Resolution in Tort’, with deputy head of law Alex Nicholson stating that she is “one of the most capable students in her cohort” with “a strong work ethic and highly professional manner.”

Meanwhile, Thompsons has also sponsored the University of Sheffield’s second year module ‘Advanced Torts Law’, with the winner, Callum Shepherd, being awarded £150 as well as a week of work experience at Thompsons after achieving the highest grades on the module.

Callum said the award win was “a truly poignant experience to be acknowledged by such a fantastic firm, a moment I will not forget”, while lecturer Dr Sarah Kebbell added how “the offer of work experience at the firm is invaluable, enabling our students to experience law in practice at first hand and get a real flavour for what a career in law entails.”

We’ve always championed the next generation of lawyers at Thompsons – those who are going to continue our reputation of delivering exceptional legal services for working people.

Natalie Harvey, branch manager at Thompsons Solicitors

In addition to its involvement with the two university modules, Thompsons has also supported Sheffield Hallam University by delivering seminars and working with ‘SHU Law’ – the university’s teaching law firm – as well as offering a one day a week placement for third year students through the ‘Law in Practice’ scheme.

The firm has also recently been involved in the University of Sheffield’s ‘Discover Law’ programme, providing guidance and work experience for several local A-Level pupils who are interested in studying law at university.

Natalie Harvey, partner at Thompsons Solicitors’ Sheffield office, said: “We’ve always championed the next generation of lawyers at Thompsons – those who are going to continue our reputation of delivering exceptional legal services for working people.

“There’s a wealth of up-and-coming talent in Sheffield, which is why we were so keen to partner with both Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield to encourage current and prospective students of the benefits of a career in law, and the positive impact working for a social justice law firm can make.”