Is the SQE included in a solicitor apprenticeship?

Jan 30, 2024

Written By Helena Kudiabor

It’s important to remember that there’s no right way to become a solicitor, and there are a variety of different pathways you can take. In this article, you’ll learn about how you can become a solicitor by doing an apprenticeship, and the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

What is a solicitor apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship combines work and training. You’ll be employed in the legal sector (most likely in a law firm) gaining hands on, practical experience. Apprenticeships are treated like solicitors, and will complete work like legal research and conversing with clients.

In addition to this experience, all apprentices spend a minimum of 20% of their apprenticeship training, a figure mandated by the government. You’ll complete your training at your workplace, at a sixth form college or a specialist training provider.

A solicitors apprenticeship typically takes between five and six years to complete, but it may take less time if you have completed legal training. At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll be able to apply to the roll of solicitors.

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Is the SQE included in a solicitor apprenticeship?

Yes! One of the major advantages of a solicitor apprenticeship is that it is fully funded. This means all your training and exams are covered by your employer. Apprentices are also paid, with the amount depending on your age and how long you’ve been doing your apprenticeship for.

For example, 16-18 year olds (and 19 year olds in their first year) get paid the National Apprenticeship Minimum Wage. Although, many law firms choose to pay their employees above the minimum wage.

What advantages are there of doing a solicitor apprenticeship?

The fact that it’s fully funded and you’ll receive a minimum wage means you won’t have to worry about how to fund your training, and you won’t have debt to worry about in the future. You’ll also enter the workforce early on, and will learn how to conduct yourself professionally.

It’s also quite rare for an apprentice to be fired (due to the training component of the apprenticeship,) so your employer will be more understanding if you make mistakes. However, this doesn’t mean you can do anything you want and get away with it!

Apprentices also tend to progress faster within their field, as they have more experience than those who chose to attend university. Apprentices are often automatically employed by their employer once they complete their apprenticeship. If not, the hands-on experience you have will be looked upon favourably by future employers.

Finally, apprentices get the chance to interact with experts in the field daily, allowing you to learn valuable insights into the sectors and make valuable connections.

With the introduction of the SQE, a solicitor apprenticeship has even more advantages than before. You’ll be able to focus on your career, without worrying about how you’ll fund your training and cover your living costs.

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