SMILE began in Chelmsford, driven by three newly qualified solicitors, Jay Johnson, Natasha Thompson, and Eleanor Bullen-Bell, who shared an ambition to break down barriers to a career in law and create opportunities for students who might not have access to meaningful work experience or a professional network. Their vision was rooted in the PRIME criteria, ensuring the programme reached those who would not typically have access to legal work experience.
To turn this idea into reality, a steering group was formed with Lizzy Ferguson in the early careers team, working collaboratively with the founders to shape and deliver the programme. From the outset, SMILE was designed to align with Birketts’ Responsible Business Strategy and support our long-term ambition to improve diversity within the firm. With the backing of our CEO, HR Director, Head of Real Estate and Senior Partner, the green light was given to launch a pilot programme marking the start of what has become a flagship initiative for social mobility.
I attended a school where opportunities were limited, and the path to a legal career felt impossible. I always had the ambition, but no clear way to achieve it. SMILE is about changing that—giving talented students the chance to see what’s possible.
Jay Johnson, SMILE Co-Founder