How have you found juggling work with your study days?
I have a good balance between work and studying. The firm gives us one day a week to complete our studying and because of the route the firm picked for my cohort, we don’t have any exams until the end of our apprenticeship. I find that I rarely have to study outside of the study day, apart from occasionally having to finish some of the reading. The firm always encourages us to not use our work laptop and not check work emails so we can dedicate this period to studying. The previous apprentices are also always available to discuss the studying side of the apprenticeship, which is invaluable.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of being an apprentice?
There are so many amazing aspects to being an apprentice. The variety of work is definitely one of those. Plus, our colleagues are so supportive – the partners and senior associates pay a lot of interest into this route and our careers. As a result, we’re given opportunities to develop and learn, and are supported in doing this, even if it’s a task that’s maybe at the top end of our ability. We’re also encouraged to develop our soft skills through client and social events. There are lots of educational talks too – you can get involved in as many as you want. The overarching aspect that I enjoy the most is the firm’s supportive, friendly and collaborative ethos.
What advice would you give to anyone considering an apprenticeship?
The golden rule with applications is research. Find out what a law apprenticeship is, which firms offer them and make sure it’s the right route for you. After this, conduct research into your shortlisted firms and the areas of law in which they work. Look into the firm’s values and hold these in mind when completing your application – show how your values are in line with the firm’s. You’ve got to ascertain whether the firm is the right fit for you too and conducting this research will help. Candidates should also illustrate the skills that the firm is looking for in its future apprentices. Use the job description and provide evidence of the skills you possess, whether that’s via your involvement in sports teams or part-time work. And, finally, remember to get someone to read your application before you send it.
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