On 6 November 2023, BARBRI Global was proud to host a University Partnerships Team webinar on the topic of 'Integrating Legal Education and Training Through Experiential Learning and Apprenticeships' The panel for the event comprised Professor Nigel Spencer, Professor of Education Innovation and Professional Practice, School of Law, Queen Mary University of London, Professor Sue Prince, Professor of Law at the University of Exeter, Dr Anil Balan - Senior Lecturer in Professional Legal Education, Professional Law Institute, King's College London, Mrs Gemma Hargrave - Director of Clinical Legal Education at the University of Portsmouth, and Lisa Slater, Senior Manager - Early Careers Programmes, White & Case.

The panel explored best practice in experiential learning - Anil Balan provided an expert view on the best use of Problem-Based Learning as a form of simulated practice environment, while Gemma Hargrave considered the range of modes in which Clinical Education can be deployed and the interface with placements.

Sue Prince provided insights from the University of Exeter on placing entrepreneurship at the heart of curricula, reflecting the Innovation strategies of Law firms.  Nigel Spencer drew upon his experience of placement-year degree programmes to look at the opportunities for a better interface of law firms and law schools and how this can create even more successful pedagogic outcomes for students.

Finally, the discussion turned to the development of degree apprenticeships, with a lead keynote from Lisa Slater on the experience at White & Case. The panel identified the desire amongst leading universities to become part of the degree apprenticeship space, to strengthen employability outcomes for students and achieve widening participation goals.  There was also a discussion of the practical and regulatory challenges in setting up apprenticeship frameworks, and how they can be overcome, inspired by questions from the delegates.

We would like to thank all our panellists for a fascinating discussion, and our delegates for their thought-provoking contributions.  All are welcome to our next University Partnerships webinar, taking place early in 2024.