Arnold & Porter-Accelerate: Work Experience London

Arnold & Porter’s Accelerate work experience is a paid two-week programme in London for Year 12 students interested in pursuing a career in law. In Week 1 participants spend a week in the firm’s London office taking part in workshops, sessions and day-to-day insight into life at the firm.

In Week 2 students spend one day at five different organisations as part of the Social Mobility Business Partnership (SMBP). The programme aims to improve access to the legal profession for those with least opportunity.

Students accepted onto the programme are matched with an Arnold & Porter mentor throughout Year 13 via a structured mentoring programme run with Mentoring Works. The scheme includes practical activities such as research and drafting exercises, presentations, and opportunities to learn about different legal practice areas, with testimonies from past participants highlighting improved skills and clarity about career paths.

Practical support is provided: travel costs are covered and paid in advance and lunch is provided. Accommodation is not provided, so applicants must live within an hour and a half commute of the London office.

The programme prioritises applicants meeting PRIME eligibility criteria and those attending state-funded, non-fee-paying schools.