My name is Tom, and I’m entering my 5th year as a Solicitor Degree Apprentice at Weightmans LLP, having been part of the first cohort of Solicitor Degree Apprentices at the firm. I’m also serving as an Events Officer for the Birmingham Solicitors Group this year. Apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular and accessible route into law, providing an alternative to traditional university pathways for aspiring solicitors.

A Solicitor Degree Apprenticeship is a Level 7 qualification, equivalent to a master’s degree. While the format can vary between firms, typically, you’ll spend four days working in a team and one day studying for your degree. You’ll also have the opportunity to rotate through different seats, allowing you to experience various areas of law. So far, I’ve worked in Wills, Trusts & Estates, Employment, Casualty, Local Government, and completed an external secondment.

One of the things I love about this apprenticeship is the variety. No two days are the same, which is one of the reasons I chose this route. I regularly draft witness statements and liability reports, assist with document reviews, and handle my own files. Each seat offers new challenges that help me build both my skill set and resilience.

There are many advantages to apprenticeships. The opportunity to learn from experienced lawyers, earn while you study, and avoid student debt are key benefits. However, the most valuable aspect for me is the practical experience. Whether it’s learning tips from colleagues or drafting professional emails, you’ll pick up invaluable knowledge just from being in a law firm. Plus, experiences like attending court sessions make apprenticeships an excellent way to develop your practical knowledge.

My Top 5 Tips for Apprenticeship Applicants:

1. Do Your Research

This might seem obvious, but it’s essential to thoroughly research both apprenticeships and university routes before making your decision. Each path has its pros and cons, and you’ll need to understand what works best for you.

2. Use Your Contacts

Use your network to gain insights. Attend networking events, like those hosted by the Birmingham Solicitors’ Group, or connect with people on LinkedIn. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends or family who have pursued either an apprenticeship or a university degree; they’ll likely have helpful advice.

3. Know the Firm

For apprenticeship applications, research the firm you’re applying to. Avoid generic applications; firms want to know why you’ve chosen them specifically. Highlight something unique about the firm, whether it’s a CSR initiative or recent news, to show you’ve done your homework.

4. Proofread

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to overlook. After writing your application, step away from it for a bit, then return with fresh eyes. This will help you catch mistakes you might have missed earlier, like the time I misspelt “apprenticeship” in my first draft of my application.

5. Be Yourself

This is by far the most important advice I can give: be yourself. Law firms are hiring people, not robots. They want to know what makes you unique and why you’d be a great fit for their team. Your application is your chance to demonstrate that and set yourself apart from everyone else.

Apprenticeships offer a practical and varied route into the legal profession, offering first-hand experience from day one. For aspiring solicitors keen to qualify by gaining hands-on experience and sidestepping student debt, this route is a worthwhile consideration. Good luck with your applications!

By Tom Reeves, Events Officer for Birmingham Solicitors’ Group