Embarking on an apprenticeship is more like running a marathon than a sprint – each step is building towards long-term growth and success.
I started my legal career three years ago as an Apprentice Paralegal at a different law firm, after finishing my A Levels at college. I had some legal work experience under my belt, but zero office experience and no idea of what it was like to work in a law firm. I’m sure you can imagine I felt scared to get everything wrong, often questioned if I was good enough and if I could navigate my way through the legal world. However, it was the best decision I ever made.
Starting my role as an Apprentice Paralegal was tough because businesses were still suffering from the pandemic and there were limited people in the office. I felt like I had been thrown into the deep end with a group of people I had never met before, doing work in a sector I had never experienced, and everything felt overwhelming.
Not long after, I started my study with CILEX alongside working four days a week and eventually things started transitioning back to some normality. I really enjoyed working with my colleagues and socialising with the other apprentices at the firm and before I knew it, two years had passed, and I had completed my apprenticeship!
The progress and experience I gained was invaluable. I started the apprenticeship as a shy 18-year-old assisting with administrative tasks yet by the time I had left the firm I was a qualified paralegal, handling my own caseload and dealing with clients daily. I proved to myself that with hard work and resilience, I could make a career for myself in law, and I enjoyed it! I left the firm as a qualified CILEX Paralegal with a Level 3 Diploma in Law and Practice. Little did I know, that was just the start…
I joined Blacks Solicitors in 2023 after being offered the role of Apprentice Solicitor. Blacks has a great reputation, and I knew that I would be able to develop my skills and experience even further. After completing my first seat in the family Law team I am now in the second year of my apprenticeship and my second seat in the Commercial Dispute Resolution team – both seats I thoroughly enjoy.
My day-to-day life is dynamic, reflecting the fast-paced nature of the team’s litigation work. So far, I’ve had the opportunity to assist with a range of tasks, from drafting a Letter Before Action for debt recovery and advising clients on restrictive covenants in employment contracts, to attending client meetings, conducting research, and handling new litigation enquiries. Every day brings something different, which I love – there’s always something new to learn, making an apprenticeship an incredibly rewarding experience.
Alongside working four days a week, I am studying with BPP on the Level 7 Apprenticeship Route to obtain my Law Degree (LLB). I should (hopefully!) qualify as a solicitor in 2028 following completion of the Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE’s). Each week, I have a dedicated study day to dive into the term’s legal module, combining reading and independent study with a lecture led by my BPP tutor. Balancing work and study can be challenging at first, but I’ve found that staying organised is essential.
I like to create a mini plan for each study day as it helps me stay focused, makes tasks feel more manageable, and gives me a sense of accomplishment as I tick things off. I enjoy the apprenticeship’s academic side; it’s always varied and allows me to apply the skills and insights gained through hands-on experience.
Choosing the apprenticeship route was undoubtedly the best path for me. No matter where you are in your legal career, there’s always something new to learn. Here are some key lessons I’ve gained from my seats so far:
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are the key to development, and nobody can ever say they have never made a mistake! It is important to learn from them and take on board any constructive feedback as it will help to improve your skills and experience.
Be a glass half full. Keeping a positive attitude can uplift not only your mood but also your approach to work and everyday life. The apprenticeship journey can sometimes feel long and challenging but remember – every step is bringing you closer to your goal. Stay focused, and keep going; it will be worth it in the end!
Put yourself out there. From the moment I started at Blacks, I immersed myself in every opportunity and have built valuable connections with people across different teams – relationships I might not have formed otherwise. Blacks has a unique culture, and it is great for you to be seen as approachable and willing to volunteer for other events going on in the firm. It is great for your personal brand too and you may just have some fun in the process!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sometimes it can be daunting asking questions to a more senior member in the team. However, you are an apprentice, and you are there to learn! So, it is important to utilise the knowledge of those around you to develop and maximise your knowledge and development.
Enjoy it! The apprenticeship goes really fast, I can’t believe I am already in my second seat. Take the time to enjoy the work you are given, the people you work with and immerse yourself into the journey you are on.
If you’re considering a Solicitor Apprenticeship, I’d encourage you to take the plunge – it’s a unique and fulfilling path that truly sets you up for a successful career. You can find out more details here.
