Three pupils from Fortwilliam College, Lumen Christi College and Banbridge Academy visited the High Court and County Court in Belfast on 25 February. They observed court proceedings as part of a mentoring programme run by Clyde & Co and SistersIN.

The SistersIN initiative targets 16 to 18-year-olds across Northern Ireland to develop leadership skills through mentoring and professional exposure. This academic year, the programme paired the pupils with lawyers Gemma Kerr, Rebecca Woods and Rachel Mee at the global law firm's Belfast office.

Participants took part in virtual mentoring sessions focused on legal career paths and building confidence. The job shadow day concluded with a networking lunch and a presentation from Clyde & Co's early careers team.

Gemma Kerr, a senior associate at Clyde & Co, described the mentoring as beneficial for both pupils and lawyers. She noted this marked the second year of the firm's support and highlighted hosting the students at the Belfast office.

Ella Rourke, partnerships manager at SistersIN, welcomed the involvement of Clyde & Co mentors. She stated the job shadow day provided workplace insights and connections with female professionals to boost pupils' confidence.