Apprentice Solicitor

TN United Kingdom; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is offering a unique opportunity for a motivated individual to join as a Solicitor Apprentice. This role combines practical training with academic study, allowing you to gain a comprehensive understanding of legal practice while working in a supportive environment. Over a 6-year placement, you will develop essential skills through diverse placements and online learning, ultimately leading to an LLB in Legal Practice. If you're eager to learn and grow within a friendly, high-achieving team, this apprenticeship could be your perfect start in the legal field.

Qualifications

• 3 A Levels at Grade C or above, or equivalent qualifications.
• 5 GCSEs including Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above.

Responsibilities

• Participating in projects and handling proceedings under supervision.
• Preparing a work-based portfolio from Year 4 onwards.
• Completing routine administrative tasks across legal teams.

Skills

Good communication skills

Teamwork ability

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Ability to review own performance

Strong work ethic

Education

3 A Levels at Grade C or above

5 GCSEs including Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above

Job description

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Essex Legal Services provides high-quality, professional legal advice across the Council and to external clients, enabling them to make well-informed decisions that positively impact service delivery while meeting statutory requirements.

They work closely with senior leaders to make a real difference in the delivery of the Council's and clients' business.

Position Overview

Essex County Council is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join Essex Legal Services as a Solicitor Apprentice.

As a Solicitor Apprentice, you will dedicate a minimum of 8 hours per week to studying, with the remaining time allocated to comprehensive training and development through placements across Essex Legal Services to gain broad legal experience.

This is a developmental role offering a 6-year placement program within Essex Legal Services, alongside online learning one day per week at the University of Law to achieve an LLB in Legal Practice and Skills, complete SQE 1 and 2, and develop key skills including a work-based portfolio.

You will participate in up to 6 different placements, gaining valuable experience and transferable skills in a supportive environment.

If you aim to be part of a friendly, welcoming, and high-achieving team, this opportunity could be ideal for you.

Salary

The starting salary is the National Apprenticeship Wage of £7.55/hour (£14,567/year). After 12 months, it increases to the National Living Wage (£12.21/hour / £23,557/year), progressing to £38,656 by Year 5.

What Will I Be Doing?

You will undertake a comprehensive training program to develop the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to be awarded an LLB in Legal Practice and Skills, including passing SQE 1 and 2 exams.

Initially, your duties will involve routine administrative tasks and placements across legal teams. In later years, you will undertake trainee-level tasks such as:

• Completing all placement requirements for progression.
• Preparing a work-based portfolio of evidence from Year 4 onwards.
• Participating in projects, duties, and responsibilities to meet high standards.
• Handling proceedings and transactions under supervision, including attending courts, drafting documents, taking instructions, and conducting research.
• Building professional relationships within the council for better collaboration.
• Achieving specific targets and objectives annually as part of performance management.

What Will I Need?

• 3 A Levels at Grade C or above, or equivalent.
• 5 GCSEs including Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above.
• Legal right to live, work, and study in the UK; apprenticeships are not covered by student visas.
• Residency in the UK or EEA for at least three years before starting.
• Ability to review own performance and learn from experiences.
• Evidence of developing skills and knowledge.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and keyboard skills.
• Good communication skills and teamwork ability.
• A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn.

Recruitment Timeline:

• 17th July 2025: Assessment centre and final interview
• Week commencing 21st July: Offers to successful candidates