Careers Networking Dinner launches

Inspiring legal pathways

On Monday 23 February, we proudly launched the first in a new series of Careers Networking Dinners – an initiative designed to connect senior pupils with accomplished alumni to provide a meaningful insight into life beyond school.

Delivered in partnership with the Alumni and Development Office, the inaugural event focussed on careers in the legal sector and brought together pupils from Years 10-13 across the Foundation for an evening of discussion, mentorship and inspiration.

Learning from those who have been there

Six distinguished alumni volunteers, representing a broad range of experience from newly qualified professionals to senior leaders and retired practitioners, generously gave their time to share their career journeys. Their diverse specialisms reflected the breadth of opportunities within the legal profession.

The panel included:

Mike Napier CBE KC (Hon)        LGS 1963                                   Solicitor

Richard Harrison                       LGS 1984                                   Barrister

Georgina Cursham                     LHS 1993                                   Barrister

Jamie Johnston                         LGS 1996                                   Barrister

Sam Wilcox                                 LGS 2019                                   Paralegal

Katie Basey                                 LGS Chair of Governors          Solicitor

The evening began in the Wycliffe Room, where pupils networked over a buffet supper, practicing professional etiquette and conversation techniques they had been advised on in advance. The formal discussion then moved to the newly renovated Sixth Form Centre and was expertly chaired by Mike Napier CBE KC (Hon)

Panellists opened with reflections on what first drew them to law and what continues to motivate them offering pupils an honest and personal perspective on ambition, fulfilment and professional growth.

Honest conversations about the future

Small group sessions followed to allow pupils to explore themes developed from the questions they had submitted in advance of the event.

1.  Routes into Law – Law degree vs conversion courses vs apprenticeships

2.  How have you seen the profession change in terms of access and diversity

3. What part of your role gives you the most satisfaction

4. What would success in law look like beyond salary or job title

5. The impact of AI and the future of the profession

6. The reality of the job – day-to-day life, pressure and work/life balance

7. Choosing your path – when and how that decision was made and what helped shape your decision

Key insights were fed back to the Chair by pupil volunteers, prompting lively whole room discussion before the evening concluded with closing remarks from Headmaster, James Neville.

Developing confidence, curiosity and connection

The event exemplified the Foundation’s commitment to preparing pupils, not just for examinations, but for life beyond school. Students demonstrated maturity, curiosity and confidence throughout – qualities frequently remarked upon by the legal volunteers.

Feedback from pupils and parents has been overwhelmingly positive:

“This event provided real anecdotes from actual legal professionals, and was immensely helpful in understanding how the legal system works and the day-to-day reality of the profession”

“Every part felt very intentional – the guidance handbook and small groups were especially good ideas”

“He gained some valuable insights and I could genuinely sense a spark of excitement in him about the opportunities ahead.”

Looking ahead

We are hugely grateful to our alumni volunteers, whose generosity and commitment made the evening possible. Their willingness to return, share expertise and invest in the next generation of Loughburians is a powerful demonstration of the strength of the Loughborough Schools Community.

Plans are already underway to expand the Careers Networking Dinner series to other industry sectors, creating future opportunities for pupils to engage directly with professional and explore future pathways with confidence.

Alumni interested in supporting future events are warmly invited to contact the Alumni and Development Office – we would be delighted to hear from you