International firm Cooley hopes to replicate the success of its US efforts to promote greater diversity in the profession. The firm, which has an office in London, has set up a UK Diversity Fellowship programme, which will award up to £12,000 to assist with tuition and study expenses.

To begin with, the firm will take on two fellows each year. Successful applicants will be considered for a training contract with the firm as part of their second year on the firm’s summer programme.

Cooley said it hopes to emulate the success of its US programme, which began in 2008, where diversity fellows have gone on to join the firm and some have become partners. The scheme has also enabled the firm to build networks with an increased diverse student base which has helped with its fellowship and summer programme participants.

Claire Temple

Claire Temple

Claire Temple, Cooley’s London office training principal, said: ‘As part of Cooley's ongoing and deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we are excited to launch our Diversity Fellowship programme in London. Our programme in the US has been extremely successful, and we have a vibrant Diversity Fellowship alumni group. We look forward to replicating this track record in the UK and to working with Cooley’s next generation.’

Applications are open to full-time university students who intend to study to qualify as a solicitor. The firm says successful applicants will also demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equality and inclusion in their local communities or elsewhere.