Eamon Harrington
(Pic: Cian Redmond)
Law Society TY initiative open to schools
The Law Society has encouraged schools across the country to sign up to Law Society Legal Ambitions, which it describes as “an innovative transition-year (TY) module to give students the opportunity to learn about the law and explore a future career as a solicitor.
More than 2,000 students participated in the course in 2024 as part of the Law Society’s continued work to widen access to legal training.
Over the course of a four-week online programme, participants are immersed in interactive online lessons where they learn about areas such as criminal law, employment law, human rights, climate justice, juvenile justice, and the Children Court.
‘Accessible and flexible’
The Law Society describes the programme as “accessible and flexible”, adding that the curriculum meets “the highest standards of content delivery”.
Teachers can access video lessons and information booklets released over four weeks, fitting into the school timetable. Students also benefit from the ability to study alone or in groups, offering flexibility to accommodate different learning styles.
The organisation says that student feedback has shown that the programme content is engaging and easy to understand, with many now considering a career as a solicitor as a result.
Applications close on 17 January 2025. Registration details are available on the Law Society website.
Widening access
President of the Law Society Eamon Harrington said: “Each year, thousands of students across the country take part in the Law Society’s school-outreach programmes to learn about the legal and justice system, their rights, and how the law helps shape our society.
“The Law Society is proud to build on its long-standing commitment to widening access to legal training through tailor-made, complimentary initiatives – including Law Society Legal Ambitions.
“In response to exceptional demand and feedback each year, the Law Society delivers a range of programmes to engage young people with the law, the importance of access to justice, and the role every person can play to protect the rights of all in our communities,” the president stated, adding that increasing early access to legal education was a priority for the Law Society.
The Law Society’s other outreach initiatives include:
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