A Remarkable Achievement for a Somerset Law Student
A law student from Somerset has made headlines after securing a highly sought-after solicitor apprenticeship, just as her college’s law school received national recognition. Esmé Jolly, an upper sixth student at Richard Huish College in Taunton, has landed a fully funded Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship with VWV Solicitors in Bristol. This prestigious role came after a rigorous selection process that attracted nearly 500 candidates from across the UK, many of whom were already working as paralegals.
Esmé, who previously attended Woodroffe School and is currently studying A Levels in law, history, and sociology, went through several challenging stages to reach this point. The journey began with an online application, followed by a video interview featuring timed questions with no opportunity for retakes. Her performance in this stage earned her a place among 16 shortlisted candidates for an assessment day.
During the assessment day, Esmé delivered a five-minute presentation proposing a new app for the legal sector, participated in a group task, and completed a written exam. That evening, she was contacted and invited to the final round, where she competed as one of just four finalists. Following an individual interview, she was offered the role.
“The experience was challenging, but I am extremely grateful to be in the position I am in now and really excited for this next stage to start,” Esmé said. “I have to thank my teachers, Rowena Mudge, Melanie Kubicki, and David Irving, all of whom gave me the confidence, skills, and assurance to pursue the job. Their support was infinite, and I am forever grateful.”
Esmé also highlighted the importance of her involvement in the Law Society and mooting, which played a key role in catching the attention of the firm. She praised the opportunities provided by the Huish Law School, stating, “It has changed my life!”
Esmé’s achievement coincides with the recognition of Richard Huish College’s law department as runner-up for the Sixth Form College Association’s Innovation and Change Award. This accolade celebrated the creation of the South of England’s first fully immersive mock courtroom, developed using repurposed furniture that would have otherwise been discarded.
Vice principals Becky Flower and Laurie Morgan collected the award on behalf of the college. Esmé added, “The Huish Law School’s inspiration to make the courtroom happen has had a tremendous impact on our learning. The courtroom embodies and symbolises so many dreams for all law students, and what we could become. It reminds us of the years ahead and the endless opportunities we can pursue, as we visualise ourselves standing in front of a real court.”
Course manager for law, Rowena Mudge, expressed her pride in Esmé’s accomplishments. “I am so proud of Esmé; we have really seen her grow and develop her skills over the last two years in law. She really came to life in mooting, making the team that reached the finals of the Bar Mock competition this year. I know that her perseverance, resilience, and hard work will stand her in good stead for the legal career ahead of her.”
The college’s law programme continues to offer students a range of opportunities beyond the classroom, including through its Law Society, mooting competitions, and annual Law Conference. These initiatives provide valuable experiences that help students build essential skills and prepare for future careers in the legal field.
