Brook is a solicitor apprentice at Blanchards Bailey LLP undertaking the shorter form programme. In this case study, she tells us about her experience so far.
Why did you choose to do the solicitor apprenticeship?
After completing my LLB law degree and a master’s degree in law, I applied for a full-time role as a legal secretary at Blanchards Bailey LLP to gain practical experience working in a law firm. I began discussing routes to qualification with the training partner and head of HR. My ambition was to qualify as a solicitor. It was decided that the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) would suit me best because I would cover a breadth of topics and then decide where to specialise during my training. The solicitor apprenticeship enabled me to continue working whilst studying. I understood that although the solicitor apprenticeship would be an intense experience, it would be the most suitable route to qualification for me.
What do you think are the advantages of qualifying through an apprenticeship as opposed to more traditional pathways?
The key advantage of qualifying through an apprenticeship is that you are learning on the job and then applying the practical skills to the theory-based learning. I have been able to be part of the growth of a successful law firm in Dorset, whilst training and developing myself. The course is incredibly well-structured, and this has worked with how I learn best. The solicitor apprenticeship approaches learning holistically, so not only am I learning core legal knowledge and practice skills, but also wider soft skills that are essential to being a solicitor.
What have you learned and how has the apprenticeship impacted on you?
The apprenticeship has supported me and enabled me to successfully pass the SQE1 exams on my first attempt. I will be sitting SQE2 in October this year and the apprenticeship has helped me to prepare for the transition to the SQE2 exams. I have reflected on my strengths and areas to improve, and I am a more confident individual having undertaken this route to qualification.
I have learnt how to provide excellent client care and the importance of identifying the client’s objectives. I have also honed my ability to draft legal documents and how to effectively complete legal research. By handling real cases whilst I learn, I have had first-hand insight into the real-life application of law. For example, I have conducted client meetings, attended court hearings, and taken part in a variety of networking events.
What impact do you think you’ve had on your organisation during your apprenticeship?
I believe I have had a positive impact on Blanchards Bailey LLP as a solicitor apprentice. I have been able to feedback my experience to my employer and share what I have learnt. By undertaking seats in several departments whilst undertaking the apprenticeship, I have been able to share ideas with other departments and put forward ideas for collaboration between teams.
I have been fortunate enough to attend several local secondary schools to discuss my experience and what it is like to work in the legal profession. I have also conducted mock interviews with students. It was a real honour to be able to represent my organisation and give something back to the school I attended. I have also actively participated in networking events to promote my organisation’s values.
How have you found the apprenticeship and working with Damar Training and the BARBRI learning platform so far?
I have found the apprenticeship very informative and well-structured. I have enjoyed the module work and understand the importance of completing the module work to meet the competencies of a solicitor.
In terms of working with the Damar Training and Barbri learning platforms, I have found them both clear and easy to navigate. The Barbri personal study plan is easy to use and helps you to track your progress as you study. The resources have helped me to grasp complex legal concepts quickly. There are also forums that you can use to ask questions and discuss the modules with other students in your cohort.
What advice would you give to other people considering the apprenticeship?
I would advise people considering the apprenticeship to stay on top of deadlines and ensure that you give yourself enough time to complete work. It is easy to get carried away with prioritising on-the-job work, but it is very important to set aside dedicated time to complete your off the job activities. The learning you do in your off-the-job time helps to consolidate your practical and theoretical learning.
What advice would you give to new solicitor apprentices commencing their programme?
If you are taking the SQE exams, limit your time on social media platforms in the lead up to the exam! There are a lot of blogs and pages that discuss people’s experiences of the SQE process (both good and not so good) and whilst it is very important to share experiences and achievements, there can be some negative messaging that might worry you. Try to focus on studying for the end-point assessment without too much distraction!