Mark is undertaking the solicitor apprenticeship at Keoghs. In this case study he explains how the apprenticeship is helping him to develop his knowledge and skills, whilst gaining on-the-job experience and earning a salary.
Why did you choose to do the solicitor apprenticeship?
Being a bit older it was really great that I could learn and qualify while I worked. This means I could still earn money to support my family, progress my career and gain this qualification at the same time.
What do you think are the advantages of qualifying through an apprenticeship?
I think it offers you greater flexibility with how you structure your learning. It also offers more security because you don’t have to worry about securing a job at the end of it.
What have you learned and how has the apprenticeship impacted on you so far?
Studying for the SQE 1 I have been learning all the different areas of law that a day one solicitor is expected to know when they qualify. I think studying for the SQE has given me confidence because it has taught me a lot, but it has also re-enforced, for my practice area, that I do know what I’m talking about!
What impact do you think you’ve had on your organisation during your apprenticeship?
I think through the regular progress meetings with my supervisor and my coach, I’ve really focused on how I can improve my performance at work and made improvements in how I support my team. That’s the thing with the apprenticeship, it’s about more than just teaching you what you need to know to pass an exam – it’s about helping you become a better solicitor by focusing on the key skills needed to be successful in the job.
How have you found the apprenticeship and working with Damar Training and the BARBRI learning platform so far?
I personally find the Barbari platform easy to use and I like how it is flexible – you can do the tasks for the week at times which suit you and the way it breaks down your performance is really helpful when it comes to revising. Damar is the other side of the course, handling all the personal development you need to be successful in your career. I’ve liked how the material has really made me think about how I do my job and how I can improve the way I work.
What advice would you give to other people considering the apprenticeship?
This is a really great way to qualify. Believe in yourself, be confident and go for it. You only regret the chances you don’t take!
What advice would you give to new solicitor apprentices commencing their programme?
It sounds obvious but work hard, trust the process (especially about note taking) and most important of all, back yourself. If you’ve come this far, you’re more than capable of passing the apprenticeship if you put all your effort into it – so don’t doubt yourself.