Next generation of legal professionals sought for new apprenticeship scheme

A brand new paralegal apprenticeship programme from the leading law firm in Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire is now accepting applications.

The Wilkin Chapman Paralegal Apprenticeship Scheme offers the first step to a legal career without the need to go to university and is designed for those who have recently completed their A Levels or equivalent.

It is the first time that Wilkin Chapman has run a dedicated apprenticeship to train candidates to become paralegals; legal assistants who support the work of qualified lawyers. The role is often the first major step toward becoming a solicitor or barrister.

Lisa Boileau, partner and head of the private client division of Wilkin Chapman, explains why the new apprenticeship scheme is so important to the firm:

“At Wilkin Chapman, we believe that investing in the next generation of legal professionals is crucial for the future success of our firm.

“Our current trainee scheme has a proven track record, and we’re thrilled to introduce our new apprenticeship scheme. We hope to attract talented and ambitious individuals who are eager to learn and grow with us.

“We’re excited to see what the future holds for our apprentices and look forward to supporting them on their journey towards a rewarding career in law.”

Apprentices on the scheme will earn a salary throughout the 24-month programme while working alongside and learning from experienced legal professionals.

Upon successfully completing the scheme, apprentices will become qualified as CILEx Level 3 paralegals, equipped with the practical skills and knowledge to apply to take on paralegal roles within Wilkin Chapman, continue their studies and become qualified Chartered Legal Executives, with the opportunity to become qualified solicitors.

Under the guidance of a supervisor and dedicated buddy, apprentices will receive practical day-to-day training and appropriate opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge. Three formal supervisor reviews will be conducted each year to ensure that apprentices are progressing as expected.

Additionally, two half days each week are dedicated to off-the-job study time, which will be spent in the office environment, allowing for easy access to support if needed. The academic element of the training will be delivered by an authorised training provider, who will monitor progress throughout the scheme. All fees will be met, meaning there are no costs for apprentices to pay.

With over 400 partners and staff located across a network of legal offices in Grimsby, Lincoln, Beverley and Louth, Wilkin Chapman is the largest law firm in the Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire area and it ranks as the 111th largest firm in the UK, with offices in Grimsby, Lincoln, Beverley and Louth. Wilkin Chapman provides trusted legal and insolvency advice to both private and commercial clients who are based locally, nationally and internationally.

For more information visit www.wilkinchapman.co.uk and for those interested in applying for the Wilkin Chapman Paralegal Apprenticeship Scheme please contact Angela English on HRofficers@wilkinchapman.co.uk.