Exploring Mediation: Key Insights and Career Tips from the Mediation Workshop

Posted on: 9 December 2024 by Angeline Goh (Third-year Law LLB student) in Blog

The School of Law and Social Justice recently hosted an introductory Mediation Skills workshop for students, run by Solutions Talk. In this blog, I share my experience of the workshop and the valuable lessons I learned.

Introduction: What Sparked my Interest in Mediation

When I saw the email posted by the School of Laws and Social Justice regarding the Mediation Taster Overview Workshop, it sparked a light in my eyes. I had been eager to learn more about mediation, and this workshop, which was designed to provide students with a snapshot of the mediation process, seemed like the perfect opportunity. Unlike what some might expect from a typical workshop, this one was far from boring. The workshop was led by two trainers from Solutions Talk, a North West-based conflict resolution company specialising in mediation, training, conflict coaching and restorative justice. Ms. Julie and Ms. Laura, both highly experienced in the mediation field, ran the session. The workshop was dynamic and engaging from start to finish. We were also provided with a comprehensive booklet to accompany the workshop, but the real essence lay in the interactive nature of the session.

What I Learned: Gaining Practical Mediation Skills

Rather than being a passive listener in the workshop, we were actively involved in various activities that helped us understand the mediation process and allowed us to learn more about ourselves and our approaches to conflict resolution. What is more, it was through this workshop that I had the opportunity to connect with peers who share a similar interest in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). One of the most valuable sessions of the workshop was a self-assessment designed to identify personal mediation styles. The insight gained was both revealing and affirming. While it highlighted my natural inclination toward maintaining relationships and seeking balanced outcomes, it also provided me with a new lens through which I could better understand my strengths and areas for growth as a mediator.

Although I had previously studied Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) during my first year in a Common Law Reasoning course, this workshop provided me with a much more in-depth exploration. We were divided into groups and assigned different roles in simulated mediation scenarios, including party A, party B, and a mediator. I consider myself fortunate to have been assigned as the mediator, which required me to step into the shoes of both parties and facilitate a resolution that balanced their interests. This hands-on experience reinforced the importance of empathy, active listening, and impartiality—essential qualities for any mediator. It has also reaffirmed my interest in ADR as a potential career path.

Key Career Advice: Exploring Paths Beyond Litigation

One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received during the workshop was to remain open-minded when exploring career options. If you feel uncertain or find that litigation doesn’t align with your interests, do consider delving into mediation or other ADR pathways. The legal field is vast, and there is no need to follow the crowd or limit yourself to conventional choices. Embracing different opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding career prospects!

Another valuable takeaway is that you don’t necessarily have to be a qualified lawyer to become a mediator. While many assume that pursuing a career in dispute resolution requires completing the Bar Practice Training Course (BPTC) or the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), that is not the case. To become a mediator, you only need to complete a certified mediation course. Personally, this is good news for those who are passionate about conflict resolution but may not want to follow the traditional route of legal practice.

Final Thoughts: How the Workshop Changed My Perspective

The Mediation Taster Overview Workshop was a transformative experience that enhanced both my personal and professional development. It has provided me with a clearer understanding of my strengths as a mediator and opened my eyes to the possibilities within the ADR field. I am incredibly grateful to the School of Laws and Social Justice for organising such a fruitful and engaging workshop. I left the workshop with a renewed sense of direction and a deeper appreciation for the value of mediation in resolving conflicts. Last but not least, I highly recommend that any law students explore opportunities like this workshop, as you might discover a passion you didn’t know you had!

How to Get Involved in Future Mediation Workshops

The School of Law and Social Justice Employability Team hosts Mediation workshops twice a year, one in each semester. These workshops are open to students from Law, Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology. Invitations for applications are shared via the Employability Bulletin, which is sent out every Thursday. The next workshop is scheduled for February 2025.