More high-profile names may be announced
The University of Law (ULaw) has launched two brand new scholarships for low income students, one named after London Mayor Sadiq Khan and the other after Baroness Sayeeda Warsi.
Both Khan and Warsi are ULaw alumni and enjoyed legal careers before sidestepping into politics (and becoming household names).
Khan worked as a human rights lawyer and served as the chair of advocacy group Liberty, while Warsi, the youngest peer in parliament when she was elevated aged 36, used to be a solicitor at the Crown Prosecution Service.
In April this year ULaw awarded honorary doctorates to the pair of politicians at a graduation ceremony held at the Barbican Centre.
Now ULaw’s celebration of its Legal Practice Course (LPC) graduates’ achievements have taken on a new life, the undergraduate and postgraduate degree provider unveiling what it’s called the Set for Success scholarships. These are full-fee scholarships, the two recipients having their 2018 LPC, Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or MA law fees waived.
Khan, a University of North London (now part of London Metropolitan University) law graduate, said:
“I am delighted that this scholarship will encourage people from different walks of life to consider a career in law. I know that the experience my legal background gave me was vital when I decided to enter politics, and I am hopeful that the recipients of this scholarship award will go on to achieve great things for society, and for themselves, in the years ahead.”
To be eligible to apply, the aspiring lawyer must have obtained, or be expected to obtain, at least a 2:2 degree and have a household income of less than £25,000 per year. Applicants must also complete an online assessment, made up of 20 multiple choice questions, and, if successful, will be required to submit a 500-word essay on a law-related topic.
Though the scholarship is generous, there are only two up for grabs. That said, a ULaw spokesperson has told Legal Cheek there will potentially be other high-profile Set for Success scholarships announced over the next 12 months.
ULaw’s CEO and vice-chancellor, Andrea Nollent, commented:
“We believe in providing talented students from low income households with opportunities to access our award-winning training. Sadiq Khan is a great example of someone from a modest background who has gone on to an amazing career, and I know that he will be an inspiration to future students.”