22 June, 23 June, 24 June 2026
Virtual

What is the AS Access Programme (ASAP)?

The Aspiring Solicitors Access Programme (ASAP), in collaboration with A&O Shearman, is a bespoke coaching programme designed to equip participants with the practical skills, tool and techniques used in everyday legal practice. 

This unique programme gives you a head start and the ability to hone your legal practice skills before your vacation scheme.

Why join?

ASAP is the first trainee skills initiative of its kind, giving you hands-on experience and practical know-how sought by commercial law firms. You’ll:

  • Develop effective written communication for colleagues and clients
  • Master the soft skills needed to be a successful commercial trainee
  • Build commercial awareness in practical scenarios as a trainee.

Who is it for?

To apply for this opportunity, you must:

  • Be an Aspiring Solicitors member;
  • Be either a first year law undergraduate student, or a penultimate year non-law undergraduate student or a GDL student;
  • Have received at least BBB or equivalent at A-levels. We do take into account any individual mitigating circumstances that may have impact your grades if you did not achieve BBB;
  • Have an interest in pursuing a legal career; and
  • Not have accepted a training contract with any law firm or legal team.
What does the programme involve?
  • Lawyer or recruitment-led workshops across 3 days
  • Each session: 2–2.5 hours; total commitment: under 10 hours
  • Practical exercises with real legal documents to simulate real-life legal tasks
Word from A&O Shearman

“This programme is focused heavily on the practical skills that you need to set yourself up for success for Vacation Scheme applications and Training Contracts. This programme gives you insight into what the work is really like as a commercial lawyer. It’s the perfect platform to bridge that gap and to demonstrate to future employers that not only have you gained these skills, but you’ve had first-hand experience putting them into practice.”

Charlie King, Early Years Senior Recruitment Manager, A&O Shearman

When is it happening?

Monday 22 June, Tuesday 23 June, and Wednesday 24 June 2026.

Sign up deadline

22 May 2026 at 5pm.

“The AS Access Programme was a turning point for me. It challenged me to engage more confidently, speak up in professional settings, and stop holding myself back. I left feeling more focused, more assertive, and more prepared to take ownership of my development.”
ASAP Coachee 2025
“ASAP helped me fix my gaze beyond the application process to what working in the field might actually be like. I have left feeling like I have insider information, and an improved ability to make my applications specific and targeted to the firms where I want to build this future.”
ASAP Coachee 2025
“The ASAP programme was a truly eye-opening and enriching experience. It provided practical, hands-on training that closely reflected the work of a trainee solicitor, from legal drafting to commercial analysis. The sessions were engaging, and the coaching was incredibly supportive, offering honest, tailored feedback that helped me grow in confidence.”
ASAP Coachee 2025
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