The Lawyers in Schools programme, delivered in partnership with the Citizenship Foundation and funded by the Legal Education Foundation, is being piloted at Priory Integrated College.

The series of 12 sessions will run at the college in Holywood, County Down from September until December.

Michael Johnston, managing partner at Carson McDowell, said: “Volunteering and the legal profession go hand in hand. This initiative is the perfect example of how solicitors should be engaging with young people and encouraging them to discuss current affairs and learn about their rights.

“Our solicitors also benefit from the programme, developing their own skills and progressing their professional development. Our aim is to get young people interested in the law and to encourage the next generation of legal professionals.”

Dr Anne Rice, Northern Ireland coordinator for the Citizenship Foundation, added: “Bringing this Lawyers in Schools pilot to Priory Integrated College is a positive step forward for Northern Ireland.

“Carson McDowell’s support in the delivery of the programme is an essential part of our aim to promote citizenship among young people.”