Why I ditched university for a solicitor apprenticeship

Lloyd is a 1st year solicitor apprentice in Shoosmiths’ Birmingham office. Here he shares his career journey to date and why he made the decision to embark on a solicitor apprenticeship despite having offers at universities.

Deciding on a career path is never easy, especially when the road ahead is as demanding as the journey to becoming a solicitor. Traditionally, this path means years of university study followed by the often-challenging quest to secure a training contract. But as I explored my options in Year 13, I found an alternative that shifted my perspective: the Solicitor Apprenticeship at Shoosmiths.

I remember being torn between two very different options: pursuing a degree at Durham University or starting an apprenticeship with Shoosmiths. As results day approached, I felt a pull toward a path that combines real-world experience with academic study. When the moment came, I chose the apprenticeship—and every day, I see why that decision was right for me.

From day one, the apprenticeship has immersed me in hands-on work. I’m not just learning the fundamentals of legal practice, I’m actively participating in them. In my first year at Shoosmiths, I am placed in a Business Development seat, which gives me a broad view of how all areas of the firm operate and interconnect. Drafting documents, attending meetings, and engaging with the inner workings of a law firm. Each task links theory with practice, deepening my understanding of the field beyond what any lecture or textbook could offer.

Financially, the apprenticeship route offers a significant advantage. Unlike the traditional university path, where tuition fees and living expenses can build up into significant debt, the apprenticeship allows me to earn a salary as I work and study. Shoosmiths covers the cost of my degree and the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), which means I’m gaining both education and experience without the looming weight of student loans.

One of the most valuable aspects of my apprenticeship is the early opportunity to build a professional network. I interact regularly with experienced solicitors, partners, and clients, each offering insights that shape my understanding of the profession and help me build a foundation for success. In my first two months, I have already attended internal and external networking events that have allowed me to make meaningful connections with people in the legal industry. These relationships are not just valuable for career advancement, they’re a source of encouragement and knowledge as I navigate the early stages of my career.

Balancing work and study can be challenging, but it’s a skill I’m quickly mastering. Each week, I spend four days at the firm, immersed in practical tasks, while one day is dedicated to my legal studies. This rhythm requires discipline and strong organisational skills, but it ensures that I’m constantly learning in a way that feels both structured and adaptable. Juggling responsibilities is teaching me how to prioritise, making me more resourceful and adaptable, skills that are essential not only in law but in any career.

The apprenticeship route isn’t for everyone, but for anyone considering it, my advice is to start with research. Understanding the differences between programmes and the specific approaches of various law firms is key to finding a path that aligns with your career goals and learning style. The application process is competitive, so it’s worth putting in the time to showcase your unique skills, experiences, and genuine passion for law.

In my experience, being proactive has been vital. Gaining experience, staying organised, and fully embracing every learning opportunity have all contributed to my success so far. This apprenticeship shows me that growth in the legal profession isn’t just about formal education or work experience alone but a blend of the two, paired with the motivation to continually evolve.

Choosing this apprenticeship over university is one of the best decisions I’ve made so far. The blend of academic learning and practical experience gives me a well-rounded skill set and a unique perspective within the legal field. My journey at Shoosmiths has been incredibly rewarding, and I’d encourage anyone considering this path to approach it with an open mind and a readiness to fully commit to the opportunities it offers. With focus, dedication, and a willingness to learn, a solicitor apprenticeship can open the door to a successful and exciting legal career.

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