BUSINESS law firm DWF has kicked off a “paralegal academy” as a path into the legal profession for school leavers.

It is thought to be the first time a national law firm has set up an academy which includes school leavers with the backing of a professional body, the Institute of Legal Executives (ILEX).

Two of the six apprentices are based at its Liverpool office.

The academy is designed as an alternative to the traditional university routes into law, which could cost more than £40,000.

The recruits will join other paralegals enrolled on learning programmes.

DWF managing partner Andrew Leaitherland said: “We are committed to developing the skills of all our people and, by establishing the paralegal academy, we are offering the opportunity for young people to build a legal career without necessarily going through the traditional university route.

“We want to lead the way in recruiting young and talented people into the business, playing our part in training school leavers so they can develop a robust and diverse career in law.”

ILEX chief executive Diane Burleigh said: “From 2012, the issue of tuition fees will see more school leavers look for alternative routes into their chosen career, but with more schemes such as this, those students will have more opportunities than ever to enter a career of their dreams.”