Meet the apprentice - Shannon Heals

Monday 6 February - Sunday 12 February 2023 is National Apprenticeship Week, providing an opportunity to celebrate the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

We have spoken to some of our current apprentices about their experience of apprenticeships at Ashfords, offering insight into the benefits of apprenticeships and the opportunities on offer at the firm. 

Below, we speak with Shannon Heals, Solicitor apprentice in our Disputed Wills & Trusts team.

What’s great about working at Ashfords?

A cliché but the people! While studying alongside an apprenticeship, and in my case studying towards a law degree, there’s no better place to seek guidance and support than among colleagues and soaking up all there is to learn in a busy law firm.

What advice would you give to someone looking for/applying for an apprenticeship?

Research firms and businesses that appeal to you in your desired area and, in particular, research their values to make sure that they align with your own. It is important that the culture is right for you and motivates you to meet your own personal career goals.

Why did you choose an apprenticeship route into law over attending a university?

I am someone who has always been more inclined to learn practically. I studied AS Levels at Exeter College and, despite enjoying my chosen subjects, I quickly realised that college did not motivate me in the same way that a working environment did. Since joining Ashfords, I have been mentored by incredible lawyers and exposed to opportunities that would have come around a lot later in my career had I gone through the traditional university route. Plus, I have been able to earn while I learn and will obtain a degree with no student debts!

About the solicitor apprenticeship

The Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship offers an alternative route to becoming a fully qualified lawyer. The course lasts four years (six years if you have not completed the Paralegal stage), where you will develop a wide range of legal and non-legal skills and gain invaluable experience of working in a top class national law firm.

If you are interested in pursuing one of our apprenticeships, please visit our apprenticeships page, or contact Jessica Iley in our early careers team for more information.