University of Law launches new solicitor apprenticeship programme

The University of Law (ULaw) has launched a new solicitor apprenticeship programme, designed to strengthen its partnerships with both employers and apprentices. A number of firms have already signed up to the programme, including Gowling WLG (Birmingham), Fieldfisher (London and Manchester) and Plexus Law (Leeds, London and Manchester).

The programme, which takes six years to complete, combines work-based and online study, as well as practical and academic elements on campus. The intention is to prepare the apprentices to be able to take the new-look Solicitors Qualifying Exam Parts 1 and 2 (due to be implemented in 2020), following which they can apply to the SRA to be admitted as solicitors.

Lucy Dolan, early talent resourcing manager at Gowling, said: “We have a strong relationship with ULaw through our existing LPC training programme. The three apprentices from our firm who will start the ULaw solicitor apprenticeship programme have already proven themselves as valuable employees during their previous paralegal apprenticeships with us and we look forward to supporting them as they embark on this new venture.”