DWF is a fast paced, dynamic, innovative legal business.  We embrace learning and development and provide our people with ample opportunity to progress, diversify and to develop talent and skill sets across multiple areas which fits perfectly with the apprenticeship requirements, seeking to develop both academic knowledge and work based skills. DWF provides the platform to pursue the development of these skills and in our quest to transform legal services and change the legal sector by doing things differently it empowers me to pursue new endeavours and challenges with the full support of the business.

Despite being a Partner with DWF studying for this qualification provides me with the opportunity to broaden my skills and to capitalise on future opportunities within our global organisation.

The course units in terms of subject matter, ranging from leadership to strategy and innovation are relevant to my line of work and equip me with the tools I need for the future to develop my skills further, skills that I need to adapt and develop to meet the ever changing demands of the legal sector.  Being able to shape assignments to focus on real life work scenarios brings the benefit of being able to commit time to research and critical analysis of literature of direct relevance enabling conclusions or suggestions to be reached as to the best course of action and often provides a framework for future planning.

My all-time role model is Eva Peron.

Getting back into education after almost 20 years out of it is possible! Its frightening to start off with as redefining priorities is tough especially balancing this with a demanding full time job and a young family.  Take one day at a time, live in the moment with it and the priorities will fall into place.

Catherine Haslam, Partner, DWF Law LLP

LinkedIn – in/catherine-haslam

Twitter: @HaslamCatherine

Joanne Harrison-Hirst, District Judge