A TALENTED student has started his quest to become a legal eagle after completing a four-week scholarship.

Harry Peterson, 18, from Weymouth, enrolled in the scholarship at Battens Solicitors as part of a joint initiative by the Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce (WPCC), the Centre of Excellence for Industrial Liaison (CEIL) at Budmouth College, and the law firm.

Harry, a former Wey Valley pupil, joined Weymouth College after his GCSEs with the intention of pursuing a career in the Royal Marines.

However, during the final weeks of his course, he decided he wanted to develop a career in the legal profession, and applied to study at Budmouth College to complete A levels in sociology, business economics, government and politics and English language.

After his A levels, Harry intends to study law at university.

He said: “I would like to say a massive thanks to the chamber and Battens for giving me this opportunity and to gain the experience that many other students do not have.

“It has really helped me to get a head start and a way to express my commitment to a career in law.

"It is very important that you display something extra on your CV to help you demonstrate your skills and ability to employers and universities.”

Whilst at Battens, Harry worked in Battens' Yeovil, Weymouth and Dorchester offices and gained experience in residential property, family law, dispute resolution, corporate law and mediation.

Harry also helped at the Law Free advice clinic in Wareham each Monday, Cherise Luke Bennett of Battens, solicitors and a member of the Chamber Executive Committee, praised Harry for his work ethic during his scholarship.

She said “It has been a pleasure working with Harry and we will be continuing to support him as his studies develop.

“At Battens we literally “grow” our own team by encouraging work based learning, apprenticeships, paid work experience and welcome graduates into the business.

“I would like to thank the chamber and Budmouth College for giving Harry the opportunity of working with us at Battens.”