Empowering the next generation at Leeds City Academy's SEED programme
1st July 2024
We’re proud to share our successful involvement in the recent Sector Experience and Employability Days (SEED) programme with Leeds City Academy. The initiative aims to inspire the next generation and provide students with valuable insights into the professional world of accountancy, finance, and law.
During SEED week, an aspirational work experience programme, we welcomed 25 year 10 students who didn’t know what we had in store, or what to expect. We’d designed an ice-breaker, some speed networking to build some confidence and skill, and a workshop on trademarks. We used an Aldi vs M&S copyright case and students were encouraged to research, form legal arguments, and present their cases, allowing them to use skills such as listening, case-building, and negotiation.
Holly Butcher, Early Careers Advisor commented: ‘Hosting 25 Year 10 students for the morning was truly rewarding, and fun actually! Debating the ‘Colin vs Cuthbert’ case allowed the students to showcase their research skills, how to think about their legal argument for their “client”, and present their case before our panel. It’s moments like these that remind us of the positive impact we can have on young minds.’
Helen Ward, Career Development Manager at Leeds City Academy, added: ‘Thanks to Walker Morris and all the firms for organising such fantastic SEED events. Our students came back inspired, engaged, and open to pursuing a career in professional services. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Stronger Together over the coming months.’
The SEED programme isn’t only about providing insight into our profession, but also about inspiring confidence and ambition in students who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities. We’re committed to improving social mobility and fostering a diverse future workforce, reinforcing the message that a career in law is attainable for all, regardless of background.
We remain a proud founding member of the award-winning network, Stronger Together, where we’re dedicated to promoting racial diversity, inclusion, and equity within the professional services sector in Leeds City Region.
We’re looking forward to continuing our support for initiatives that empower the next generation and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse professional community.
For further information or enquiries, please reach out to our Press team.