DEGREES OF CONCERN


How modest of Simon Kenneally to assume that he is academically superior because he decided to undertake a law degree rather than stoop so low as to study the common professional exam (CPE) (see 2006 Gazette, 29 June, 16).



His presumption that a law degree is superior merely because it is more academic is ridiculous and his characterisation of those taking the CPE as 'robots' offensive.



Both routes of study have their advantages and disadvantages and employers surely look at the entire CV rather than the qualification section in isolation.



Training contracts are elusive and they should be given to the best person for the job, not because the candidate has a law degree or not. A good lawyer has to be both intelligent and practical. Academia is not necessarily an indicator of either.



Samantha Chubb, Alun James & Co, Weybridge