Apprentice Paralegal Review

by Irwin Mitchell

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.5/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

My role as an Apprentice Paralegal consists of attending client meetings, attending Court, drafting legal documents and taking new enquiry calls. Each day in the role differs.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt many new skills in my role such as drafting and I have also built on my communication skills and teamwork.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I am really enjoying the programme. I have now completed my studies and working a 5 day week. I feel the practical experience that I have gained is invaluable.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

My programme has been structured using 2 main online platforms - OneFile and Open Learning. I feel that these platforms can be navigated easily enough but I would say that more notice and updates would have been beneficial in relation to the actual off the job learning.

6/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive a lot of support from my employer. I have weekly catch ups with my line manager. I am also part of a hub which consists of all apprentices, trainees and paralegals within the team. I know there is always someone for me to go to for support.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I would have liked more frequent updates and feedback from my training provider. Although the programme was well structured, I felt that the support aspect lacked at times. I did, however, feel that the reviews every 6-12 weeks were useful to track progress.

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I believe that working towards my qualification has helped me in my role, especially when we studied our relevant area of law at the end of the programme. It also helped with legal research and client communication skills which are essential.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are professional networking events to get involved in at work. Business development events are highly encouraged, even for juniors. Social activities are also arranged which is a great way to socialise with colleagues outside of a work setting.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Irwin Mitchell to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Because they are a reputable firm that encourages progression for juniors. They have been highly supportive of apprentices in my experience.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Irwin Mitchell?

Research the firm, understand the culture and values to ensure they align with your own, investigate all of the teams they offer vacancies in and be yourself when applying and interviewing.