Apprentice Paralegal Review

I work under the Court of Protection and support multiple long standing clients as we are appointed as their financial Deputy by the court. We manage their finances as they do not have the capacity to manage them themselves. This includes budgeting their annual expenditure, income and assets whilst making sure decisions are made in their best interest.

Yes, I have developed confidence in communication whether this be written or verbal. My tenacity has improved as I am required to have difficult conversations with clients, many of whom lack the mental capacity to understand their finances and position. Also my IT skills have developed using software's such as time recording and excel spreadsheets regularly.

It can be a challenging balancing study time and work, especially in the department I work under. My firm have been very supportive and provide one full day a weeks as study time to focus on my course and training. This is important and has improved my efficiency to prioritise and manage my time.

The apprenticeship itself and content provided has been very interesting. I have enjoyed working in my firm most. CILEx have had a big year with several changes made to my course in particular (structure-wise and the path to qualify) this has been a little confusing at times and could be clearer to students, but I have still enjoyed the programme.

My employer have been fantastic at supporting my training. They regularly ask how I am getting on, what I need from them and if any further support or guidance is required. They also allow me the time to grow independently and push for progression which I personally find very supportive.

My employer has been very supportive in my training programme with CILEx. The have been very accommodating with what I require and supportive in how to achieve this when discussions are held. Training development seems to be changing a little at my firm so clearer support on the pathways available is rising.

I feel the qualification provides a great wider understanding of law and the realistic requirements of my role in a firm and what is expected of me in terms of client care. The content for my personal department does lack a greater connection and much of what I do at work is from experience in my working role rather than my qualification.

There are multiple activities that workers can get involved with. Events are held regularly by groups that support different causes/topics such as diversity. The firm also has several sports teams such as netball and football and an annual social budget to fund such events throughout the year for staff.

Yes

The firm are great at what they do, diverse in their staff and supportive in your actions and choices. The form make changes when issues are raised and look regularly at how they can improve the workplace from our suggestions made. For example we now have flexible working as an option going forward.

Show how you apply yourself to Irwin Mitchell's values. Be yourself, show what you can do and enjoy getting to know any staff member you meet as in my experience everyone has been very friendly and inclusive and a lot of fun. Show your abilities to work and passion for the role.