Latest news: Eversheds launches alternative training

International law firm Eversheds has launched a Combined Study Training Contract (CSTC) which will integrate the legal practice course (LPC) with the training contract from August 2012. 15/12/2011

Developed in agreement with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) , the CSTC will enable trainees to undertake the core modules of the fast-track LPC before joining the firm to start their training contracts.

This will allow them to study the LPC electives during relevant seats of their practical training. Trainees will be able to apply their learning in a practical environment, improving the relevance of the subject studied and the quality of learning. It will also mean that trainees join the firm on a salary much sooner, shortening the period from LPC to qualification.

The CSTC, a result of Eversheds’ ongoing exploration of alternatives to traditional legal training, will take place in the firms London, Leeds and Birmingham offices. It will offer 12 students a place at the firm under the scheme, while 48 students will join the firm in September 2012 on a traditional training contract. The 12 trainees will complete the LPC at BPP Law School, studying the core modules from August 2012 until December 2012, with the CSTC running from January 2013 to January 2015. Trainees will be able to qualify as solicitors approximately eight months earlier than under the traditional route.

‘We are very excited about our Combined Study Training Contract as we believe that this is the future of legal training. Lawyers of the 21st century need a high quality learning experience which will stand them in good stead for their future careers. We anticipate that this more focused, work-based learning approach will be very popular,’ said Nicky Bizzell, graduate recruitment manager at Eversheds.