At a Glance
- Tasks: Join an 18-month programme to develop your skills and network in the legal field.
- Company: Baker McKenzie, a global law firm dedicated to social mobility and diversity.
- Benefits: Paid summer work experience, mentorship, and support for university applications.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with opportunities for further development in law.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with hands-on experience and expert guidance.
- Qualifications: Must be in Year 12 and meet specific eligibility criteria.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
BEGINNINGS at Baker McKenzie is an 18-month social mobility-focused development programme for Year 12 students interested in a career in law. As a global firm that values diverse thought and inclusive opportunities, Baker McKenzie is passionate about breaking down barriers for talent from all backgrounds and communities.
Each year, 20 students will be selected to join the programme and attend regular events both in-person and online. These include virtual skills sessions that develop an individual’s academic prowess and employability in law, as well as engaging networking opportunities and a three-day summer work experience placement in our London offices. Students will also have a dedicated mentor assigned to them who will invest the time, advice and training needed to see them succeed. This is alongside a team that’s there to ensure you’re supported at every stage of your academic journey – from UCAS and exam guidance to pre-university preparation.
If you show a strong commitment and a real passion for a future in law, you could be invited to join our FUTURES at Baker McKenzie programme. This offers further support and development opportunities during your first year of university. You could also receive financial support and a place on our First Year Insight Scheme.
Eligibility Requirements
- You must be in Year 12 (England and Wales), S5 (Scotland) or Lower Sixth (Northern Ireland) and be attending, and have always attended a state funded, non-fee paying school/college.
- You must also meet one of the following to take part in this programme:
- You have been in, or are currently in, local authority care
- You are currently in receipt of, or have previously received free school meals, Pupil Premium, Education Maintenance Allowance and/or 16 to 19 Bursary
- You are, or have been a full-time or part-time carer
- You came to the UK as a refugee or asylum seeker
- Your main household earner’s occupation is categorised as a routine or manual occupation
- You are attending a state school or college with below average A-Level or Higher point score and/or low rate of progression to higher education
- You grew up in a household where no parent or guardian attended University
Note: Young people who meet the local authority care criterion do not need to meet any other criterion.
If your application is successful, you will be invited to a virtual interview between February and March – after which we will determine whether we will offer you a space on the programme. You must also be able to complete the three-day summer work experience at our offices in London. This will be paid and all travel and accommodation expenses will be covered throughout the programme.
Application Guidance
Work experience isn’t a necessity for this scheme and we do not score this on your application form. However, some of these fields under the work experience section are mandatory to complete, so please follow the steps below:
- Select ‘Yes’ to the question is this your current job
- Select 1/12/2025 in the start date field
- Enter ‘Not applicable’ in the company name and title fields
- Please leave the other fields blank
Education
We do not require information about your previous academic record and we do not score this on your application form. However, some of the fields under the education section are mandatory to complete, so please follow the steps below:
- Select ‘United Kingdom’ under the location field
- Select ‘Beginnings’ under the Institution/University/School field
- Select ‘Other’ under the degree type field
- Leave all other education fields blank
About us
At Baker McKenzie we are different in the way we think, work and behave. With our team of 13,000 people, including over 6,500 locally admitted lawyers, in over 70 offices worldwide, we have a passionately collaborative community of 60 nationalities and are committed to world‑class career development to everyone in every job at every level. Baker McKenzie can offer you both the uncompromising commitment to excellence expected of a top firm paired with a passionately global and genuinely collaborative working environment.
Additional Information
Baker McKenzie is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion for all. Our unique international culture is reflected in the drawing together of a worldwide family of individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds in all of our offices. We encourage the best people – regardless of race, religion or belief, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or age – to fulfill their professional aspirations with us. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all candidates.
BEGINNINGS Programme 2026 employer: Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH
Baker McKenzie is an exceptional employer, offering the BEGINNINGS Programme as a unique opportunity for Year 12 students to explore a career in law while receiving invaluable support and mentorship. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the firm fosters a collaborative work culture that empowers individuals from all backgrounds, providing tailored guidance throughout their academic journey and beyond. Participants benefit from engaging networking events, skills development sessions, and a paid summer work experience in London, ensuring a meaningful and rewarding start to their professional aspirations.
Contact Details:
Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land BEGINNINGS Programme 2026
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace BEGINNINGS Programme 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH and the specific role of BEGINNINGS Programme 2026. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Baker & McKenzie Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH.
