EMpower Programme 2026

As a firm, we are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) and actively encourage all our people to reach their full career potential by being their true selves. Our vision is to be the most human law firm, creating an inspirational culture where everyone feels motivated, valued and empowered.

Our initiatives demonstrate a willingness to innovate, push boundaries and find ways to have as big an impact on DE&I as possible.

EMpower

As part of our wider commitment to increasing the representation of Black heritage and ethnic minority individuals in the legal sector, we launched our EMpower programme in spring 2022. The programme provides a unique opportunity for students to gain invaluable insight into the firm, develop skills relevant for a career in law and build relationships with lawyers which will continue once the scheme has finished through our mentoring programme. It has been tremendously successful, resulting in many vacation scheme placements and training contract offers with the firm.

About the programme

The programme is aimed at those from Black heritage or ethnic minority backgrounds who do not feel ready to participate in a vacation scheme, and would appreciate further insight and experience in advance.

The four-day programme includes:

• divisional/practice area talks;
• commercial awareness insights;
• work shadowing;
• panel sessions and networking opportunities with employees at all levels, from trainees through to our CEO;
• skills sessions, including how to network and our bespoke mock trial;
• careers advice such as navigating routes to qualification, preparing for applications and assessment centres;
• on the final day of the programme, you will participate in our vacation scheme assessment centre where the best candidates will have the opportunity to secure the first places on our vacation scheme for the following year;
• a Penningtons Manches Cooper mentor who will continue to give you guidance and support for 12 months once the programme has ended, with the option for continued informal mentoring afterwards.

This year's programme will run from the 13 - 16 April 2026 in our London office and you must be available on all of these dates to attend. This programme is paid, intended to cover costs you may incur during the programme, including travel. Lunch will be provided throughout the week, either on the day or allocated vouchers to redeem.

Please ensure you have applied for the EMpower programme by9th January 2026.

EMpower criteria

The following criteria apply for candidates:

• from a Black heritage or ethnic minority background;
• law undergraduate, penultimate year or final year non-law undergraduate, or up to two-year post-graduate;
• have, or be on track for a 2:1 degree in any degree discipline;
• committed to a career in law;
• a great team player;
• exceptional communication skills.

We understand that extenuating circumstances can occur during studies and therefore if you do not meet these criteria and feel that your grades are not a true indicator of your abilities, please include some context within your application and this will be considered.

Remember to mention AllAboutLaw in your application so employers know you're using the best resources.