Paralegal Review

I describe documents for cases that we work on, prepare and make bundles for court, attend different training and auditorium sessions. I also help other colleagues with any tasks they need to help with, such as envelope stuffing. I also complete spreadsheets and do different types of research to complete some of my tasks.

Yes, I have learnt a lot about Excel spreadsheets and different systems the FCA use such as EMS, the digital e-discovery platform that we use for forensic analysis of digital material extracted from seized computers and mobile devices. I have also become a lot more organised and have improved my communication skills

I really enjoy my programme, my colleagues are nice and I like the atmosphere at the workplace. the work can sometimes be a bit repetitive but overall it is interesting and it is a good programme. My training provider, BPP, were really unorganised at the start but it is a lot better now and I am enjoying my e-learning modules.

BPP at first were quite unorganised with the dates that our modules etc were due, however, now they are a lot better and my understanding of all of my due dates is clear. I have my one day a week at home to study and he rest of the week I complete tasks given to me by my manager. The FCA is very organised and the structure of what the apprentices do here is very good and well thought out with a lot of good content.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. My manager is always there to help me and answer any questions that I have regarding my work. Also if I am ever worried or have a question about my studying he is very supportive and will help me find out the answers I need from BPP. He also sets me tasks which link to my portfolio outcomes, which allows me to produce good quality work.

I receive some support from BPP. I have check-in calls with my portfolio coach which is good because I can explain to her what I plan to do for my upcoming portfolios and she tells me if that is a good idea and anything else that helps me meet the outcome. The training days at BPP are somewhat helpful and they enable me to have a clear understanding of what I need to do for upcoming modules, portfolios and coursework.

Gaining my qualification will help me build up skills and fill any knowledge gaps that will help me to fulfil my role. For example, my portfolios will show a range of work and I can reflect on how to improve my performance. My online VLE modules, where I learn about relevant areas of law, enable me to have a better overall understanding of the laws and offences that we investigate at the FCA.

There are lots of different activities outside of working in the office. We have lots of sports clubs such as netball and tennis. We also have 'away' days for different departments and there are always different team building activities every month. Our organisation also has a gym and offers different classes such as learning to speak a different language.

Yes

It is a friendly and supportive company. If I ever have any questions everyone is always happy to help and no one thinks any less of me as I am an apprentice. I am treated fairly and equally. It is a very pleasant environment to work in with lots of different training and self development opportunities.

Just be yourself and be confident. I didn't think I would get this role but I am so glad I did. Definitely put effort into the phone interview and the face to face interview, do some research. It also helps if you have some sort of previous legal knowledge such as a Law A-level.