Damar provides the only solicitor apprenticeship built specifically for the SQE, with routes designed for existing paralegals and law/non-law graduates.
In addition to developing individuals within the profession, the apprenticeship provides an extensive range of benefits to law firms and in-house legal teams.
We recently spoke to some of our legal employer-partners to ask them what impact the apprenticeship is having on their organisation.
To find out more about our solicitor apprenticeships for new or existing members of your team, see our solicitor apprenticeship page.
Amanda Hunt, Learning and Development Specialist at Davies Group, said:
“Apprenticeships are a great undertaking not only for the learner but the business, as it strengthens our overall business strategy of developing our people. It offers an opportunity to all employees and with that comes increased retention with a workforce that is continually increasing their knowledge.
“Damar continues to be a supportive and encouraging learning provider. The flexibility in their approach to apprenticeship offerings makes them a number one choice for our people. The systems they use are easy to navigate and the BARBRI platform is an engaging and intuitive tool for our learners during their apprenticeship.”
Jane Cordner, Head of HR and Operations at Blanchards Bailey, said:
“We have placed a large number of apprentices on Damar programmes over the years due to their supportive and personal approach. When they started offering the solicitor apprenticeship we were, therefore, very keen to place apprentices with them and I’m delighted to say that our expectations have been met. The individual approach through the BARBRI platform has enabled each of our apprentices to follow a programme of study that is tailored to their needs and helped them to develop and grow in terms of knowledge as well as performance in the workplace. Also, and very importantly, offering such excellent development opportunities has enabled us to attract high quality applicants to our business.”
Nicki Collins, Practice Manager at Cramp & Mullaney, told us:
“Our solicitor apprenticeship programme has significantly boosted productivity and created more opportunities for our staff. It has established clear progression paths for those aiming to qualify, which we hope will reduce turnover and encourage long-term commitment to the firm, supporting our organic growth.
“As a business, we truly value Damar’s structured approach and the flexibility of the 18/35 month pathway options. The platform offers essential resources and support, giving apprentices a clear focus that helps them stay on track and remain motivated, especially with the ongoing guidance from the coaches.”
Teresa Barnett, HR and Marketing Manager at Sutherland & Co Law, said:
“Sutherland & Co Law don’t believe there’s a set path in law – university isn’t for everyone, and we appreciate that. Caroline Sutherland has apprenticeships at the core of her growth strategy. We recruit at entry-level with business admin apprenticeships and have solid development plans for succession, business continuity, and a robust talent pool. Coached and mentored by senior team members, the apprentices are part of our skills gap solution. Our apprentices are all valued team members and make a positive contribution to the Sutherland & Co Law brand.
“Damar provide structured support, and their coaches go over and above to support the learning journey. It is a great collaboration working with Damar, and we would highly recommend them as a training provider.”