Lester Aldridge is proud to welcome five new Graduate Solicitor Apprentices who begin their legal careers this week in partnership with Bournemouth University. This marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time Bournemouth University has offered the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship route.
The apprenticeship combines in-person academic study with hands-on experience, allowing participants to earn while they learn and gain practical insight into the legal profession. The academic element of the programme prepares apprentices for the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE), the central assessment for qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales.
Lester Aldridge is delighted to support this innovative pathway, which reflects the firm’s commitment to opening doors into law and nurturing future talent.
“We’re passionate about creating opportunities for aspiring solicitors to enter the profession in ways that suit their individual ambitions,” said Tom Alder, Managing Partner at Lester Aldridge. “The Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship is a brilliant example of how academic learning and practical experience can come together to shape confident, capable lawyers. We’re proud to be working with Bournemouth University to support the next generation.”
The new apprentices – Kate Donovan, Elliott Baczala, Finlay Morrow, Aaron Dewar, and Hannah Feibusch – all previously worked at Lester Aldridge in paralegal roles.
Lester Aldridge offers a diverse range of routes into legal qualification, including the traditional Training Contract, the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship, and alternative professional pathways such as the CILEX route and qualifications for roles like Licensed Conveyancer. Each route is designed to support individuals in developing their careers in a way that suits their personal and professional goals.
The firm looks forward to seeing its new apprentices thrive and is excited to continue building strong relationships with local educational institutions.