Freeth Cartwright launches legal apprenticeship scheme

Top 100 law firm Freeth Cartwright continues to expand – this time through the launch of its first ever apprenticeship scheme. The first appointments will be at the firm’s Nottingham and Birmingham offices although it is hoped that positions will also be created at some of the firm’s seven other offices in due course.

The programme is being run in partnership with legal apprenticeship specialists Damar Training and ILEX Tutorial College, who are supporting the firm with apprentice recruitment as well as training and assessment for the apprentices.

The apprentices will be providing administrative support to fee-earners and will have the opportunity to learn about life in a busy law firm from the ground up. At the same time they will be working towards an apprenticeship in legal administration, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills required for their role. Depending on progress over the first year, progression to higher qualifications and fee-earning positions may be possible.

Freeth Cartwright are looking for candidates educated to A level standard who are interested in working and learning rather than following a purely academic route.

Carole Wigley, principal HR manager at Freeth Cartwright commented: “We are really excited about this project. Apprenticeships provide a way for us to introduce new staff to our values and culture early in their careers. They also enable us to attract ambitious and talented applicants who might otherwise find it difficult to enter the sector at a time of rising student fees.”

Jonathan Bourne, managing director of Damar Training, said: “We are delighted to be working with Freeth Cartwright on this project – these are fantastic opportunities that offer a real alternative to the traditional academic pathway.”