STUDENTS considering a career as a solicitor are being given a unique opportunity to research their post-graduate options online.
For the first time, the Law Society has created a online post graduate fair to reflect the major changes to the vocational stage of the route to qualification, coming into force in September 2011.
Students will be able to view details of all the courses offered as part of the new Professional Education and Training Stage 1 (PEAT 1), also known as the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice.
Liz Campbell, director of the Society’s Education and Training team, said: “The introduction of PEAT 1 is an exciting time for students as, unlike the previous Diploma, up to 50 per cent of the content of PEAT 1 will be elective, meaning that students will have a real choice regarding the area of law they might wish to practise in.
“It is vital therefore, that prospective students take time to consider which Diploma provider can offer a programme best suited to them now, and in the future. The Online PEAT 1 Fair allows students the opportunity to view all the providers offering the Diploma and to consider their options to make an informed decision for the future.”
The creation of the Online PEAT 1 Fair is part of the Society’s Supporting New Lawyers Strategy 2010/11, and is part of the Society’s commitment to provide information and support to new lawyers throughout the route to qualification.
Heather McPhee, the Society’s development officer for new lawyers, added: “Choosing whether to undertake the Diploma has always been an important and, at times, difficult decision for students to take.
“The Society understands the factors involved in making this decision and has published a Guidance Note with the Diploma application forms once again this year. It outlines the current position of post-graduate funding, traineeship numbers and the cost of fees.
“The Online Fair and the Guidance Note have been developed to assist students in making key decisions which will impact on their future during challenging economic times.”
The Guidance Note is available to download on the main page of the Online Fair, along with the Pritchard Trust application forms. The Trust was established to assist those who wish to qualify as solicitors, in particular Diploma students, who, through financial constraints, are unable to do so.
If any individuals have any questions in relation to the Diploma or the Pritchard Trust they are encouraged to email http://mce_host/media_releases/clients/diploma@lawscot.org.uk.
The Online PEAT 1 fair is now available at www.lawscot.org.uk/becomingasolicitor
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Please contact Suzy Powell on 0131 476 8115. For the out of hours service please call 0131 226 7411. Email: suzypowell@lawscot.org.uk
MEDIA RELEASE posted by the Law Society of Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more details, email here.
Contact: Suzy Powell
Phone: 0131 476 8115
Email: suzypowell@lawscot.org.uk
Website: http://www.lawscot.org.uk
