Ashfords LLP launches Solicitor Apprenticeships

Having successfully run apprenticeship programmes since 2016 at Paralegal and Business/Legal Administration level, Ashfords has become aware of an increasing appetite for higher apprenticeships among individuals within the firm. As a result, the firm has decided to launch a Solicitor Apprenticeship programme (recognised by the SRA) from September this year.

Following a great performance at a recent assessment centre, Ashfords is pleased to announce that, Shannon Heals and Beth Stevens will be commencing the six-year journey to becoming qualified lawyers as Ashfords' very first Solicitor Apprentices.

Beth is currently a Paralegal in the Exeter Banking & Finance team whilst Shannon is a Paralegal in the Exeter Trusts & Estates team. Beth and Shannon initially joined the firm as Legal Administrator Apprentices back in 2016 and 2017 respectively.

 The firm is looking forward to seeing both Beth and Shannon develop their legal careers over the next few years.

What are the key features of the Solicitor Apprenticeship?

• Using BPP as the academic provider, the apprenticeship is a six-year programme, incorporating a qualifying law degree (obtained by the end of year 4) and including the new Solicitor Qualifying Exams, known as SQE 1 and 2 (equivalent to the Legal Practice Course).
• It requires 20% off the job learning but is fully online so study can be done from the office.
• Applicants are expected to have at least 3 A Levels at grades A* - C, or equivalent experience in the firm and consistently good performance ratings. Supervisors are asked to complete a performance assessment based on specific competencies.
• The apprenticeship is not open to Law graduates as it incorporates a qualifying law degree.
• Non-law graduates are eligible to complete the apprenticeship but are not offered any exemptions – therefore needing to commit to the full six years as they are completing a second degree.