With the apprenticeship route to success becoming ever popular across the country, combining on-the-job training with academic study opens the door for aspiring law professionals to get experience of real-world settings whilst learning and earning, benefitting businesses as a result. 

We spoke to some of our apprentices to hear first-hand the difference it makes to be offered an opportunity in the world of work. 

Aliza, a paralegal apprentice for Cygnet Law, said: “My experience as an apprentice has been really positive. I’ve been able to learn in a practical and hands-on way while developing real workplace skills. It’s been challenging at times, but the support from my employer and tutors and my supervisor has helped me grow in confidence and ability. 

“The best part is being able to apply what I’m learning straight away. Instead of only studying in a classroom, I get to see how the law works in real situations. I also value earning while learning, gaining professional experience early, and being a part of the Cygnet team that trusts me with meaningful work.” 

Lucy is a chartered legal executive at Tilly, Bailey and Irvine. She completed a law degree before taking a different path. “I came out of university with no experience and really struggled to get a job as a result,” she said. “I chose an apprenticeship over a master’s-level qualification as I wanted job security, and experience in the field rather than 100% classroom-based learning. 

Completing a Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship with Innersummit, delivered via Bede Sixth Form College, 25-year-old Lucy was able to constantly apply her learning on the job, and praised the really supportive management team, particularly around exam time. 

“I look forward to progressing the conveyancing department – I’ve been here since the start. If I had my time again, I would have started with a CILEX qualification – but that’s just my journey. There are so many ways to succeed in law.” 

Kelly, a senior legal assistant within the Child Protection Team at Invicta Law has been with the organisation for 14 years and after watching people qualify around her, she felt the pull to do more. Kelly said: “From the first phone call that I had with Victoria (Christie), I just knew the [Level 7 Chartered Legal Executive Litigator and Advocate] Apprenticeship was going to be a great fit for me. Victoria was so welcoming and really took the time to explain the course to me and to reassure me with any concerns I had about studying the apprenticeship remotely and being so far away from the college. 

“Both Victoria and Peter (Rowlands) are exceptional tutors and their lectures and seminars – all delivered online – are really enjoyable and engaging. I feel very lucky.” 

You’re interested. What’s next? 

Whether you’re a large national law firm or a smaller business, the Etc. is the provider for you. 

Our flexible, high-quality apprenticeship programmes are designed to meet your needs and drive long-term success. 

If you are interested in speaking to our business team about how we can support your firm with skills and training for your workforce, including upskilling talent within your business, we would love to hear from you at business@the-etc.ac.uk or 01642 865 557.