Trainee Solicitor - Apprentice Review

This role changes every 6 months with the experience of a new legal seat. I act as part of a team of partners, solicitors trainees etc and I get to assist with matter management, drafting legal documents, client communication and completions of deals. It involves lots of project management and file management.

Yes, I have developed lots of existing skills. I have definitely improved my communication skills and team building abilities. My oral communication skills are particularly better now. When it comes to new skills, I would say my legal technical skills are new in relation to each new area of law I sit in.

I really do enjoy my programme. I think the opportunities given whilst on the programme are amazing and the opportunities that the programme also opens up for me in the future are wonderful. I love constantly learning and being challenged, whilst also being supported with my struggles. I find it great to develop.

It is really well structured, with a clear progression plan from day one and this carries through the 6 years. We are made aware in advance of all changes and all movement to our structure and all decisions are given to us with good reasoning. We get increased responsibility as we progress through.

The support I receive from my direct manager is really good. I have a great relationship with them and they are on hand for assistance and advice when needed. I feel I can turn to them for help and they have my best interests at heart. As a company on a whole, the support is there when needed.

The support we receive from the training provider is limited and our employer makes up for this. There's a number of people working for the provider who are excellent and these people do stand out for being supportive and great at explaining things. I rely on these few people.

The qualification I receive directly links to the role that I do and I couldn't do my role without it. With each new term, we learn a new module and each module helps with the understanding of legal concepts that are needed for the daily role as a trainee.

Yes, there are these activities available if wanted. We have football teams, social events every month and also professional events if preferred. I don't participate in many of these activities due to time constraints but if it's something you want, then it's good. They are always open to new activities too.

Yes

-Opportunities to progress are made clear and well explained. -Lots of experience given even at a junior stage. -Really lovely culture and the people we work with are so welcoming and helpful. -Benefits package is a bonus. -Opportunities to socialise if wanted. -Great facilities and offices, including good equipment available.

My main bit of advice to those applying would be to really research the company and understand why you want to work there over other firms. Learn about the values of BCLP and how you may fit into those values. Also, show off your personal experience in other areas such as part time jobs, extra curricular etc.