The University of Law and Freshfields team up on paralegal apprenticeship scheme

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP, with The University of Law, has launched a new paralegal apprenticeship scheme at its Manchester-based legal services centre, with the first intake starting this coming October.

The two-year programme is being delivered in partnership with The University of Law and Damar Training. Apprentices will work at the firm while also studying online through The University of Law’s i-LLB, with modules that are matched to the apprentices' areas of work.

Olivia Balson, head of Freshfields’ legal services centre commented: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the legal services centre and for our future apprentices […] We want to encourage wider access to law and possibilities for progression for the very best talents. These apprenticeships offer a flexible route for talented students to join the legal profession and opportunities to those already in the firm to nurture these talents.”

Jason O’Malley, director of apprenticeships at The University of Law, said: “We are delighted to work with Freshfields and Damar Training on this new paralegal apprenticeship scheme. We are confident that the practical nature of the education offered, alongside substantive work-based learning, will provide valuable new employees for Freshfields, and an alternative and robust route into the profession for young people interested in the law.”