Legal Apprentice Review

I am a legal apprentice working in Pensions. My day-to-day role involves picking up tasks which have been delegated down from lawyers running different matters. An example of this could be drafting various deeds which have been requested by the client. Other tasks involve attending calls and working on projects.

I have learnt several new skills. For example, liaising with clients, adapting my writing style when corresponding via email, communicating on calls with multiple attendees. I have also developed my existing skills. My attention to detail has been enhanced by drafting multiple deeds and agreements.

I really enjoy the apprenticeship programme. I like the mix between study and work, having the study day on Monday is a nice change from the office - but then being in the office 4 days per week is equally enjoyable; providing new challenges and chances to progress.

The apprenticeship is structured really well. The 1 day per week study day / 4 days in the office provides a really good balance. Equally, organised meetings with supervisors/people team allows the apprentices to raise any concerns or provide suggestions on how the apprenticeship could be developed further.

I feel very supported by my employer, they are very understanding with regard to the importance of my study. Always ensuring that my study day is not compromised, or if I need to take a study day on a different day (due to an exam schedule) being allowed to do so.

I receive plenty of support from BPP with regard to working towards my qualifications. For example, during COVID-19, students were able to apply mitigating circumstances for their exams in order to allow further time to prepare. This made me feel very supported and more confident moving forward for my exams.

Several modules that we have studied have provided useful context for working in departments. For example, contract law and commercial practice were very useful subjects to learn and assisted the tasks I was completing in Disputes and the tasks I am completing now in Pensions.

Yes, there are several sports clubs such as the running club, football team, cricket club and several more. There are always various networking events to attend and opportunities to meet new people. There are several department socials with fun quizzes and activities. I have also attended socials with the apprentices.

Yes

I would recommend Burges Salmon to a friend because I am a real advocate for the apprenticeship scheme. I feel like awareness of the apprenticeship scheme needs to be raised as much as possible, in order to provide an alternative to going to university.

The apprenticeship application involves a written application, group assessment center and a final interview. I would ensure the written application is thoroughly checked and without errors. For the group assessment center it is important to show an ability to work with others. For the interview, learn about the firm and Burges Salmon's values.