In recent years the legal profession has made progress to diversify the industry and create opportunities to be more inclusive. However, there are still a range of obstacles that prevent individuals from accessing a career in law and processing in the industry.
Individuals with university education, from high socio-economic backgrounds still predominantly occupy the upper tiers of the world's leading and most esteemed law firms. However, there is optimism that new initiatives such as Solicitor Apprenticeships can enhance EDI by making law more accessible.
The Solicitor Apprenticeship was introduced in 2015 to enhance social mobility within the industry and support a significant transformation in the qualification process for aspiring lawyers in England.
Anya French joined Bennett Oakley Solicitors in summer 2023 and started a Solicitor Apprenticeship in January 2024. Having gained first-hand experience in the legal profession and exposure to various areas of law and different practice settings, she has become an essential and well valued member of the team.
Anya French said: “I am so grateful to have found a firm who will support me throughout the 6 years of my apprenticeship. This scheme has provided me with an amazing opportunity to expand my knowledge in all areas of law while observing and assisting lawyers first-hand. I look forward to continuing my studies with BPP and my journey with Bennett Oakley Solicitors."
**The apprenticeship scheme has provided a range of benefits for the firm including: **
Practical Experience: Apprenticeships provide hands-on, real-world experience in legal practice. This practical exposure allows apprentices to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting, enhancing their understanding of the legal field and the expertise within the firm.
Earn While Learning: Unlike traditional routes to qualification, apprentices can earn a salary while undergoing training. This financial support helps alleviate the burden of student loans and living expenses, making legal education more accessible.
Enhanced Employability: Completing a legal apprenticeship enhances an individual's employability. Employers value practical experience, and apprenticeships provide a strong foundation for future career opportunities within the legal profession.
Networking Opportunities: Apprenticeships allow individuals to build professional networks within the legal industry. Establishing connections with experienced professionals can be valuable for future career development and opportunities.
Increased Social Mobility: Legal apprenticeships aim to improve social mobility within the legal sector by providing an alternative route to qualification. This helps individuals from diverse backgrounds access and progress within the profession.
Tailored Training: The scheme offers tailored training programs that align with the specific needs the Bennett Oakley’s specialist requirements. This customised approach ensures that apprentices develop the skills and knowledge necessary for building a legal career.
Professional Support: Apprentices receive mentorship and guidance from experienced legal professionals, creating a supportive learning environment and facilitating the development of essential skills for gaining a career in law.
Operations Director, Samuel Cash said: “We are really pleased that we have been able to support Anya on her journey to becoming a solicitor through the apprenticeship scheme. Anya will our first apprentice at Bennett Oakley and will be able to combine on the job experience whist studying to reach her end goal of becoming a Solicitor.”
Unlike many traditional law firms, Bennett Oakley is owned 100% by its employees. We are the first law firm in Sussex to become employee owned, offering our employee owners a stake–and-say in the business, as well as an equal share of profits. Through our modern and innovative approach to business, we aim to invest in the best team possible to support our clients and influence change that positively transforms the make-up of the legal industry.
Bennett Oakley Solicitors are proud to work with BPP Apprenticeships to create new opportunities for individuals who seek to build a career in law.
For more information regarding Bennett Oakley Solicitors and for more legal insights, please visit: https://www.bennettoakley.co.uk/insights
