Apprentice Solicitor Review
at DWF
Degree Apprenticeship
Legal/Law
Manchester
Review Submitted: May 2021
Overall Rating
3.8 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
I pick up a wide range of commercial, real estate and finance litigation work so each day is different and I am involved in a range of litigious and pre-litigious work. Generally I respond to client queries and draft legal documents such as letter of claim, claim form, defence etc.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
My work is varied but quantity fluctuates - sometimes I can be busy but other days I may not have much on at all so this can be difficult. I enjoy working for the company, it has a very welcoming and supportive culture. The studying side of things can be stressful and hard to juggle alongside work.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Developed legal drafting skills as well as written and verbal communication, the ability to train junior members of the team as well as obtaining the skill of supervising work and how to give constructive feedback.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
DWF's organisation and structuring of the programme has improved but information often comes at short notice and in piecemeal form. The study day is very helpful but BPP are often very disorganised and don't offer much support, with many deadlines being too rigid/close to other deadlines. Lack of communication between employer and training provider.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
DWF as a whole have been brilliant in understanding our needs, particularly regarding exams/study leave. Our Apprenticeship Supervisor has regular catch ups with us and is always available. I also receive constant support from my line manager who ensures I have everything I need and deals with any concerns.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Some tutors are not willing to provide out of class support and do the bare minimum but others are willing to go above and beyond. Very little support is received from our apprenticeship manager at BPP who has sporadic contact with me. Portfolio coach is very supportive and often available.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Some of the topics covered do not apply to my role so they do not carry over into my work however when they have done, I have found this to help in furthering my understanding of key legal principles and how to apply them. I feel I know more about the wider industry, even if not directly applicable.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
These have been restricted by the pandemic but DWF have tried to maintain this where possible. There are usually social events including Christmas and Summer parties, sports clubs, opportunities for volunteering as well as networking events with local barristers chambers.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend DWF to a friend?
Yes
Why?
DWF are a great firm to work for and provide so many opportunities in terms of work experience/exposure as well as extra-curricular social activities to get involved in. They offer lots of support and are flexible to our specific needs as apprentices. Great culture and people.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to DWF?
The application process can be tough as it involves an assessment centre but it is worth the hard work as it is a great company to work for.
