Solicitor, Level 7
What made you choose this apprenticeship?
I had an interest in law from age 14 whilst completing my GCSEs and I was keen to study this post-16. However, my sixth form did not offer law as an A-Level subject. Whilst my peers were applying to universities I felt uncertain about studying at that level.
I did some research online, looking at alternative routes into law. The Instagram page Young Professionals was a key platform, sharing information about the apprenticeship route. I attended webinars and workshops, developing my understanding of what an apprenticeships could offer me, where to find them and how to secure one.
What has your journey been like?
I began applying in January 2022, submitting applications, attending work placements and undergoing both group and individual interviews whilst also taking my A-Level exams. By July 2022, I was offered a place.
My apprenticeship began at the end of August, and I chose to work in the Commercial and Governance team as this closely matched my university studies.
On my first day, my supervisor and I met to create a training programme for my year in the team. It introduced me to key aspects that my colleagues deal with, such as procurement. I am able to assist co-workers with their client matters, such as researching topics and completing existing contract templates with client information. Now in January, I have responsibility over two client leads.
I attend online webinars on Monday’s at the University of Law Bristol, which is the day I have dedicated to studying. The rest of the week I work in the office. The academic side of my apprenticeship is split into weekly reading units and one-hour lectures, followed by prepare, engage, and then consolidation tasks. As a public sector employee, I am also offered the opportunity to be seconded to a private firm for part of my programme.
I have an amazing social life with other apprentices who are employed at other firms. I have attended Christmas parties, dinners and fun activities such as bowling!
My apprenticeship is 6 years long, and I qualify as a solicitor in 2028. Although it’s not the traditional route into becoming a lawyer, I enjoy additional benefits such as earning a competitive wage whilst learning and qualifying with no university debt at the end of my programme.
What challenges have you faced during your apprenticeship?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was entering my career so young. I’m aware I have entered the working world straight from sixth form, There will always be an anxiety when going into a field and being completely new, lacking knowledge, but I feel comfortable speaking to co-workers about any topics. Something I was told on my first day is that there is no such thing as a silly question, especially when you are new to something and that will always be very important to me.
What life skills is your apprenticeship teaching you?
I’m learning how to socialise and interact with people in a professional conduct. I was 16 when Coronavirus began. I tended to communicate with people in my own age range. In this role, I have met many interesting people, from within the legal department. I feel more confident to engage.
What are your plans once you have completed?
Once I have completed my apprenticeship, I would like to practice law as a qualified solicitor. I am excited to learn which area will be of most interest to me whilst undertaking my apprenticeship.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship?
Absolutely. Apprenticeships are a great alternative to traditional post-16 studies, and offer a direct route into a career sector. I gave a short presentation at my old secondary school explaining the benefits of following this route. For young people like me who have a more practical learning style, apprenticeships are more vocational and offer a hands-on style of teaching, in which their natural abilities and skills can flourish.
