Why choose a Solicitor Apprenticeship? Emma Davies explains

When it came to deciding what I was going to do after my A Levels, I was unsure what route to take. The debt, the idea of moving away and the thought of staying in full-time education didn’t really appeal. But nor did the option of apprenticeships – I feared I’d end up without a degree or a recognised qualification.

I knew I wanted to pursue a career in law and started researching different legal routes. I discovered the solicitor degree apprenticeship, applied for a number of them and was accepted at AWB Charlesworth Solicitors. AWB Charlesworth appealed as a great firm with values I aligned with.

Rather than having to worry about getting a training contract and how I am going to qualify post-university, those aspects are all built into the apprenticeship. I will become a legally-qualified solicitor when I finish my studies.

Working while studying, allows me to see all areas of legal practice and see what I want to specialise in. And I have gained important professional skills I wouldn’t have received if I had gone to university.

As part of my apprenticeship, I work 80% of my time leaving one day a week dedicated to my university work. I attend workshops, complete assignments and revise materials learnt. It is hard sometimes to stay disciplined but everyone at AWB Charlesworth is supportive, understanding and they’re always happy to help if I have any questions regarding my studies.

Many people think that the idea of an apprenticeship is hard work and you miss out on a social life. It’s true that I do work 9-5 and study many evenings. But, I earn a salary, have weekends and holidays free, and the money to enjoy that all-important social life. And when I graduate at 24, I’ll be debt-free and fully-qualified. For me, this was the perfect choice!