Apprentice Paralegal Review

My role consisted of assisting solicitors with their matters and managing a small basic case load myself. Daily tasks included making payments for clients, filling out basic forms, contact with clients, updating client's files, legal research, etc.

Yes, new skills I have developed include communication within a team in a professional setting and attention to detail when drafting documents / form filling. I have developed existing skills, mainly on the client care front. I have improved my telephone manor and general empathy towards clients often difficult situations.

I enjoyed the apprenticeship program very much. It was a great opportunity to jump into an office working situation and develop relationships with new people. I learnt a lot through to study side of the course and was able to apply this effectively to my job role straight away.

It was generally well structured however there were occasions where certain aspects of the Cilex exam process and course were not made totally clear right away. There were regular review meetings which helped with this and various changes within Cilex team did improve this aspect later in my apprenticeship.

I received a lot of support from my employer. I had regular meetings with my line manager who was a bit help in putting together my portfolio. I also had help from other members of the team who had completed similar portfolios. My manager supported me in meeting the criteria.

Sufficient support. There were some periods where additional support may have been beneficial from my LAT (supervisor/advisor) but the tutors were all very helpful and prompt. Generally this was good enough.

The practical skills learnt have certainly helped me in terms of my role as a Paralegal. However, unfortunately the legal content of my study was not exactly related to the department I work in. So whilst there are many transferrable skills and topics, this has not left me with particular expertise.

Yes, pre-covid there were many social and networking events taking place and these have continued in a virtual sense this year. There are also sports teams which are great for getting to know people from other teams. I personally play on the 5 a side football team which has been great.

Yes

Because the general atmosphere around the office and the teams is great. My team specifically are great and I could not recommend a friend enough to a role in our team. There is plenty of support, training and events which add to this.

Try to stand out from the crowd. IM seem to value individuality and gravitate towards passionate people. In terms of the interview/assessment process I would advise others to, where possible, not be scared or intimidated by interviewers who are senior members of staff. The human touch is something IM values and this extends from top to bottom, find common ground and build relationships early.