Paralegal Apprentice Review

In my role at Pfizer, I am a trainee paralegal. This consists of day to day activities such as contract reviews, contract amendments and answering of legal queries. I have also worked on the contract templates in terms of updating them and ensuring that they are accurate. I also provide company secretarial support which includes the submission of confirmation statements and the appointments and resignation of directors. I ensure that internal records relating to companies house are up to date and reflect companies house.

I have developed greatly while at Pfizer. I have particularly developed my attention to detail by reviewing packaging designs as well as contracts. I have also developed professional mannerisms such as office conduct and socialist skills. I have also developed academically in the completion of my paralegal course. I have learned about the general rules for the formation of a contract which have been applicable to my every day work. I have learned about key aspects of commercial practice, specifically drafting and negotiation which I have practiced within Pfizer to perfect my skills.

I thoroughly enjoyed my programme. Pfizer provided me with all the support I required in the completion of my programme. My team at Pfizer invest a lot of time in me and set aside time to go through new work and explain this to me. I have built very strong professional relationships that have allowed me to excel throughout the programme. My team have made me feel included and allowed me to feel as though my opinion matters and that I am an important part of the team.

The programme in terms of practically at work is not structured. Work is provided to me by colleagues, it is explained either by email or face to face, I will then complete the work and it may be discussed afterwards. In terms of academically, this is structured via online distant tutorials. In the beginning, the academic structure of the course was not great however this improved after feedback was provided. Currently, in the support of upcoming exams, BPP have been very good. They are consistently in touch and remind me about the support I can obtain if I need it.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. Within my team, each member who provide me with work will take the time to talk with me and explain to me anything I do not understand. This has been crucial in my development as I have learned a lot from my colleagues' experiences. I have had constant communications with my line manager including relating to professional development. In terms of Cogent Skills, I also receive support from them. I have regular review meetings in which I discuss the progress of the course and raise any concerns I may have.

There is always support from BPP which is very well communicated. BPP make me feel as though my qualification is just as important to them as it is to me. I have regular review meetings with BPP, I have a dedicated Apprenticeship Manager which is available to be contacted with my queries and I have online support through BPP-prepared materials. Therefore, support is always available to me when I need it and I never feel as though I do not have support from BPP.

My qualification is extremely relatable to my role within Pfizer. Topics covered in my qualification are applicable and practically applied within my role. This consolidates my knowledge further to ensure that I am absorbing and understand the information provided to me by BPP. For example, when I studied commercial practice, I learned about drafting and developed my skills within this area at work.

At Pfizer, I have taken part in a volunteering day which most people within the team participated in. This was a good opportunity to socialise with the team outside of work and to do something good for the local community. Occasionally, there are networking events that I have previously attended. For example, I have attended team off sites which provide brilliant opportunities for discussion and socialising.

Yes

Pfizer is a very friendly place to work. It is a place where you feel included and valued each day. My team have played a significant part in my apprenticeship and have allowed me to develop professionally in providing me with varied work that has challenged me. Pfizer also values your health and cares very much about the individual.

I would say to those applying to Pfizer to just be yourselves and not to feel nervous in applying. Pfizer is a large company but it is a welcoming place that works to excel your professional skills and support you in any challenges you may face and help to provide solutions.