Law apprenticeships are a relatively new concept and it means that if you want to get into a legal career and avoid any debt that you may pick up from university, this could then be for you. Each apprentice’s journey is tailored according to their prior qualifications, their employer’s needs and their own ambition and ability. You can choose 3 main options when it comes to legal apprenticeships, here is a breakdown of these options.
Solicitor Apprenticeship
A six to seven-year programme for post-A level students; the period of study is shorter for graduates or apprentices progressing from the other legal apprenticeships. Through Solicitor Apprenticeship schemes you also get to gain a degree. Degree apprenticeships are relatively new however you could be a solicitor at the end of the programme with 6 or 7 years of experience - putting you miles ahead of most law graduates.
[https://www.getmyfirstjob.co.uk/Apprenticeships/DegreeApprenticeships.aspx||Learn about degree apprenticeship programmes]
Legal Technician Apprenticeship
A two to three-year programme for post-A level or exceptional post-GCSE students. Depending on individual needs, apprentices will follow either the paralegal apprenticeship or the advanced or higher apprenticeship in legal services. There is also job-specific training and assessment that covers relevant law, practice and business skills. These apprenticeships are suitable for apprentices in roles where they will be managing aspects of case files, conducting legal research and some drafting in addition to carrying out administrative work.
Legal Support Apprenticeship
A twelve to eighteen month programme for post-GCSE students or post-A level students. Apprentices complete the City & Guilds apprenticeship in legal administration at intermediate or advanced level. These apprenticeships are ideal for those working in administrative, secretarial or support roles. The content ensures that students develop the skills needed to provide excellent administrative support within a legal services environment.
There are other apprenticeships that are suitable for non-legal roles in law firms (business administration and accountancy for example) as well as specialist pathways for Chartered Legal Executives, conveyancers and probate practitioners. It’s a win-win for both the business and the apprentice, the business gains a hard-working individual who will learn many skills through their time there and the apprentice gets their foot in the door in the world of work doing what they want to do.
Benefits to the Apprentice
- No cost and so no student debt for the training within the apprenticeship standard or framework.
- An opportunity to put learning into practice immediately.
- A route to a law degree and qualification without needing to secure a training contract.
- The support of a leading apprenticeship provider and one of the UK’s leading law schools.
Benefits to the Business
- A way to recruit the best talent, sooner.
- Relevant training, tailored to the employer’s needs, delivered by experts.
- Increase staff retention and commitment.
- A way to develop the skills of existing colleagues.
- Government funding support.
- Reinforces an employer’s commitment to social responsibility.
