Step into Law Scheme

Our Step into Law Scheme is an interactive, inclusive, and insightful series of workshops and group mentoring sessions.

What you’ll gain

The Step into Law scheme is for Year 13 students who are curious about a career in commercial law. It involves a blend of in-person and virtual sessions, blending skills workshops, commercial awareness and application support. During the course of this scheme, you will gain a deeper understanding of the legal sector and our work at A&O Shearman. You will grow your legal and commercial skills and expand your professional network, while learning how to excel at applications, assessment centres and interviews.

Work experience

This scheme is built around three in-person ‘Touch Points’ followed by a virtual session to support you going forward. Each Touch Point focuses on a different stage of your development. The first Touch Point includes interactive sessions where you will explore the basics of commercial law and the firm’s work. In the second, you will attend a practical, case-based workshop to deepen your commercial and legal skills. The third Touch Point focuses on early applications and assessment centres, with insights and practical advice from a trainee panel. Lastly, you’ll join our Early Careers recruitment team for a virtual 60-90 minute Touch Point to support you as key application windows open. You’ll see first-hand what it’s like to be part of our supportive community, get a sense of what is expected from everybody here, and what we can help you achieve when you join us.

Growth and development

This is your opportunity to learn and grow. We offer exceptional professional and personal development – providing training, mentoring and practical support. You’ll have a designated ‘Buddy Bubble’ and other points of contact during the Step into Law Scheme, to ensure that you receive the best pastoral care possible. You will also have the opportunity to share learnings and network with firm employees and fellow participants.

What we look for

This scheme gives you the opportunities you need to expand your skills and an insight into the culture of the firm. Whether you’re ambitious, curious, or open-minded; whoever you are, this scheme is a chance for you to start your journey early and develop your legal expertise.

Eligibility criteria

You’ll need to have:

• Minimum predicted grades of AAB at A Level or equivalent
• Achieved 7 GCSEs at grade 6 or above (including Maths and English)

Below are the essential skills you need to thrive on this scheme. From making meaningful contributions to our team and clients, to facing legal challenges, these skills will help you excel with us.

Curiosity

You want to find out more about the firm, our culture, the clients we work with and the sectors we operate in.

Ambition

You’re determined to achieve a first-class legal career and tackle challenges along the way.

Organisation

Your ability to keep on top of your work and focus on the details helps you keep projects on track and succeeding.

Collaboration

You work well with others and have an open mind to different ideas and new perspectives.

BELONG.EXCEL.

Application window: 5 January - 2 March 2026

The firm will cover return travel expenses to and from our London office.