Apprentice Solicitor Review

On a day-to-day basis my role involves completing tasks I have been allocated. Common tasks include drafting letters or court documents, chasing third parties and updating the internal case management system. I often interact with colleagues as part of a task, although I have less interaction with external parties (such as the client).

I have gained a Level 3 CILEx Paralegal qualification and a Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education in Legal Services from BPP. I am working towards the Level 7. There are often internal training opportunities, the most common being learning through other colleagues and by asking questions. I have learnt to manage my own time and to effectively communicate with others. I have gained technical legal knowledge and skills through my formal qualification, and through the workplace experience.

I enjoy work, although some days can feel repetitive and lack purpose. Overall, the company culture is excellent and I feel very well supported in my development. It varies between departments, but there is a great team culture. It meets my expectations, and I can see that there is more to learn and enjoy as I develop my skills and knowledge.

The programme organisation / structure has improved since I started my apprenticeship. It also varies between teams / departments. I have a designated study day each week, and receive support from line managers where necessary in my studying (e.g. completion of my portfolio). The support is there, if you go and ask for it.

I receive support from my manager, colleagues, other apprentices and the Emerging Talent team. It is easily accessible, but you often have to go and ask if you need something. The general attitude is very positive and supportive, particularly at the beginning of the apprenticeship. I receive guidance from my employer if I have any issues.

I have module tutors, that I can contact with questions about a specific topic. Support is accessible - there is a specific legal apprenticeship team that offer support, along with Apprenticeship Managers. I have calls with my Apprenticeship Manager at BPP and my DWF line manager every term, which is helpful in working towards qualificaions.

What I am learning on the apprenticeship has helped during my day-to-day role. The skills and behaviours modules, such as legal research, working with other people and legal writing have been helpful. I know more about my role and the general expectations from completing my qualification. However, the most useful thing is learning on the job.

There are company events / activities, social events and voluntary initiatives, which apprentices are encouraged to get involved in. There are in-person and online events. People are keen to increase the number of events back up to what they were pre-COVID, including sports / leisure events. I have also enjoyed the voluntary initiatives, and would recommend volunteering.

Yes

I would recommend DWF to a friend. I feel supported in my professional development, and the culture is great. In general, the experience I have gained has been varied and challenging. It has exceeded my expectations and I am looking forward to the next few years of the apprenticeship with DWF!

The supportive culture filters down to the application process, interviews and assessment days, so it is not as scary as it might seem at first! I would like to have been told to relax and smile more! I would recommend the open days / events, to meet current apprentices and learn more about DWF and the apprenticeship, and would say to make the most of the opportunities you have.