Exeter College’s Reach Academy has been boosted by the news that the ground-breaking initiative has attracted the UK Regional Law Firm of the Year as a new sponsor.

Michelmores LLP joins the Met Office and the Emergency Services in supporting the Reach Academy whose aim is to encourage high performing students to stretch themselves academically and to aim high in their university and career ambitions by providing a range of exclusive opportunities and events.

Michelmores partner Emma Honey said: “We have a long-standing association with a wide range of educational establishments and this, coupled with a robust corporate and social responsibility programme, made supporting the Reach Academy a very attractive option.

“We were attracted by the concept of broadening the horizons of the most able students and providing them with access to specialist programmes, participation in inspirational master classes and a range of extra-curricular activities not normally available to many young people.

“In addition to financial support, Michelmores will be providing work experience for six students so that we can play a positive role in helping students to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to progress their academic careers at top universities and perhaps to inspire them to pursue a career in law.”

Exeter College’s Assistant Principal, Anne Oxborough added: “We are delighted that Michelmores are supporting the Reach Academy, helping us to step closer to our goal of having a professional partner for every specialist area that we provide support in for our Reach Academy students. The firm’s proactive approach to sponsorship is an endorsement of what we are trying to achieve through this unique programme and is a wonderful example of the educational and private sectors working together to achieve mutually beneficial objectives.”

Further sponsorship opportunities for other sector areas covered by the Reach Academy are available. Those interested in opportunities can contact Chris Lorimer at Exeter College.

Six Reach Academy students will be at Michelmores for work experience for three days in April with two students in each of three legal departments, business, property and privcate client.