Training Contracts and Graduate Legal Apprenticeships
After undergraduate study, to achieve 2 years of Qualifying Work Experience under the SQE many candidates will look to gain a training contract or a Graduate Legal Apprenticeship with a law firm or in a legal department. This has the advantage of providing on the job paid training and allowing you to study towards the SQE exams.
It is not, however, the only route, and you may wish to build a portfolio of experience for example through pro bono law clinic work plus paralegal work.
Training contracts
Normally a 2 year rotational training programme where you will do four, six month "seats" in different departments.
Law firms are adopting different approaches to SQE. It’s therefore essential that you check entry requirements for the firms you plan to apply for, particularly as most will recruit one or two years in advance.
Some law firms may recruit candidates who:
- Have completed SQE part 1
- Have completed SQE part 1 and part 2
- Have yet to take any exams: The company will train you through to completion of SQE 1 and or 2.
Graduate Legal Apprenticeships (level 7)
Paid work and study route lasting 2-3 years: provides an opportunity to sit the SQE part one and part two whilst working. (Not to be confused with solicitor apprenticeships which are for school leavers without a degree)
Check the application timeline and eligibility for this route as this will vary depending on your previous education and stage of legal training.
Funding your legal training
- Which law firms will fund your LPC, SQE preparation and GDL/PGDL course fees and pay maintenance costs
- Social Welfare Solicitors Qualification Fund (SWSQF) 2022 Financial assistance to aspiring solicitors working in social welfare law for organisations serving disadvantaged communities, funding towards (SQE) preparation courses and assessments
