Anna

Previous school: Launceston College

Courses studied:  A Level English Language, Geography, Law and AS English Literature

Progression: Paralegal Apprenticeship at an international law firm with CILEX (The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives)


I had a place at Exeter University to study Law, however I wasn’t 100% sure that I actually wanted to go to Uni. I decided to take a gap year to figure out what I wanted to do and started investigating other ways to enter the legal profession. I came across legal apprenticeships and knew this was a route I would prefer to take. I found a firm advertising for a paralegal apprentice and decided to apply. I contacted my tutor at Callywith, Emma Howman, who kindly gave me a character reference. The application process was competitive however everyone was really friendly and supportive and I managed to secure a position in the Real Estate team.

The apprenticeship is a 2 year course provided by CILEX (The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) and we are given one study day a week. During this time we have webinars and a study timetable where we complete work set by CILEX. I then work 4 days a week, and complete a range of tasks including commercial post completions, drafting legal documents and liaising with clients. I was surprised how quickly I was given responsibility and my own workload, and have gained lots of new skills and knowledge already. The apprenticeship is funded entirely by the firm, meaning I am earning a good salary and not having the expense of uni fees.

Once I have completed the apprenticeship I am hoping to complete the level 6 CILEX apprenticeship to become a Chartered Legal Executive and would really like to specialise in agricultural and rural law.

I am confident the real life work skills I am learning through this apprenticeship will benefit my career massively and would definitely recommend taking the apprenticeship route if you are considering a legal career.