Paralegal Review

by Poundland

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.6/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I work as a Paralegal for Poundland; providing support to the solicitors in our team. I assist with intellectual property (IP) matters (contentious and non-contentious (IP searches)), reviewing, preparing and negotiating contracts, litigation matters, regulatory matters and general legal queries from the wider business.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

My verbal communications have improved significantly; I communicate with our internal client on a daily basis, attend meetings and interact with third parties such as external counsel, suppliers (when negotiating contracts) and the court (when dealing with claims).

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Whilst it has been quite challenging working full time and studying, I have found it rewarding. I have gained a lot of experience of working in the legal field, which has helped me develop within my role at Poundland. And my confidence has grown.

6/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

In general, my course was quite loosely structured in that I did not have many deadlines to meet. I worked through each (online) weekly module at my own pace and had a mock exam to complete each week. I have organised my own time.

6/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

My employer has been extremely supportive throughout the duration of my course. I have been given time to study, prepare for exams, help with queries regarding course content and also moral support.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I have been allocated a 'skills coach', who I met with regularly (towards the beginning of my course), who is very supportive and happy to help when I reach out. I can also email my lectures with specific queries regarding the content of the course.

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I have improved upon practical written skills in the areas of legal writing, legal drafting and case and matter analysis. Furthermore, through studying advocacy and client interviewing, my verbal communication skills have significantly developed. I have also gained legal knowledge of business law and contracts (my areas).

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes. Poundland provides the opportunity to network through various training events. Poundland also has many charity events, which all colleagues can become involved in.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Poundland to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

There are many opportunities to develop professionally and personally.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Poundland?

Be enthusiastic, inquisitive and determined - be prepared for a fast-paced working environment.