Inspiring futures: a transformational week at Mayer Brown

For the fourth year running, we joined forces with Mayer Brown in August to give students an unforgettable glimpse into life at a top international law firm.

For a group of our 10 talented students, it was more than just a placement – it was a chance to step inside a world-leading law firm and discover what a future in law could really look like.

Behind the scenes of city law

The week opened with a warm welcome, a tour of Mayer Brown’s London headquarters, and an introduction to the firm’s culture. Students rotated across departments, shadowed supervisors, and worked closely with trainee “buddies” who offered real insight into daily life at a global law firm.

They also sharpened vital career skills through workshops – from a practical networking masterclass to an open and honest Q&A with Mayer Brown trainees and apprentices, who shared their personal journeys into law.

"Opportunities like these have a huge impact on young people. They provide a real insight into the workplace, open powerful networking doors, and help students make informed decisions about their next steps. This is exactly why Open Palm exists; to equip the next generation with the skills, connections, and confidence to succeed in the world of work. For many, experiences like this are life-changing. We’re proud to play a part in making them happen." - Sophie McBaiden, Trustee and Co-Founder of Open Palm

Beyond office walls

The programme was not confined to the office. Students visited the global headquarters of HSBC, taking part in speed networking, exploring the building, and testing their knowledge in a lively legal-themed quiz.

A visit to the law courts brought the law to life in a powerful way – a highlight of the week and a true eye-opener for many.

Building confidence, inspiring futures

The week ended with student presentations – a showcase of everything they had learned and a chance to demonstrate the confidence they had built.

The feedback has been outstanding. Students left feeling inspired, motivated, and more determined than ever to pursue their ambitions.

“At Mayer Brown, we believe in the power of opportunity. Partnering with Open Palm’s work experience programme allows us to open our doors to the next generation of legal talent, offering young students a meaningful glimpse into working in our fee-earning departments. 

As part of the programme the students also visited the Royal Courts of Justice and spent a day with in-house lawyers at HSBC.  It’s not just about inspiring future careers—it’s about fostering inclusion, building confidence, and helping students see themselves in spaces they may not have imagined. 

We’re proud to support this initiative, sharing our knowledge and playing a part in shaping the students future.”  - Jo Sampson, Manager: Community Building & CSR at Mayer Brown

Open Palm students at HSBC in London

We are deeply grateful to Mayer Brown for continuing to open their doors and giving our students such a warm welcome. Opportunities like this prove that young people not only belong in these spaces, but with the right support, can achieve extraordinary things.

To see how work experience can change a young person’s future, read more about our programmes here.