Law School networking event leads to training contract

Kent Law School alumna Leigh Leach has secured a training contract with a leading law firm in Kent thanks to a networking event organised as part of the School’s Professional Mentoring Scheme.

Leigh, who graduated last summer with a Law LLB degree, attended the scheme’s annual networking evening with legal professionals in London last year where she met Solicitor David Bowers from Thackray Williams Solicitors.

Leigh said: ‘Initially, we all took part in a small workshop where we played a few games to practice introducing ourselves, shaking hands and asking open questions. We were then encouraged to put our newly enhanced skills into practice by networking with the mentors. Unfortunately, my mentor could not attend the event but, I approached David and spoke to him about his experience as a newly qualified solicitor and his work in the personal injury department. I was particularly interested in this field and David kindly gave me his business card along with an invitation for work experience at Thackray Williams.

‘Following the networking event I emailed David and arranged a week's work experience in the personal injury department. During the week I was lucky enough to attend court, meet with clients and work on some personal injury cases with David. My work experience was key in my decision to apply for a training contract at Thackray Williams and David also kindly assisted me with my application form.’

The full article can be found on the Kent Law School website - https://www.kent.ac.uk/law/news/index.html?view=2591