Apprentice to expert: Ollie’s journey with Foot Anstey

At 18, Ollie Wilson took his first step into Foot Anstey as an apprentice and over the past nine years he has built a successful career by advancing through qualifications, gaining new skills, and growing within our Conveyancing team.

Ollie shares why he chose the apprenticeship route and how it’s shaped career.

From start to success

When I was studying at sixth form, my goal was to become a legal executive or solicitor. At the time my options were limited and the only path I was aware of involved going to university. I recall Foot Anstey having a stand at my school's open evening and after learning about the offering, I thought it sounded like a really good way to kick start my career.

I applied to the firm and undertook an apprenticeship with them via the CILEX pathway.

The CILEX route appealed to me as it didn't require a degree and I don't think I was disciplined enough to commit myself to university without the focus a job brings. Whilst being ready to continue studying, I also felt ready to start working and learning on the job, so the apprenticeship was the perfect choice. The Solicitor Qualifying Examinations (SQE) was not an option for me when I was choosing my path, but I think the apprenticeship offering available now is another great way to start advancing your legal career.

Over the last nine years, whilst studying and working, I've progressed from a Legal Apprentice to a Senior Conveyancer, and I'm now close to finishing my qualification to become an Associate. My apprenticeship has allowed me to progress within the firm and work towards my career goals.

The benefits of an apprenticeship

The main benefit of doing an apprenticeship for me was being able to earn and learn at the same time. I had a fixed day a week at college and four in the office enabling me to progress with a professional qualification, whilst gaining the technical experience in a role. I felt that this way of qualifying would be the best fit for me and it has worked out brilliantly!

My main piece of advice to anyone applying for an apprenticeship is to reach out to people who have or are currently completing this path. There are plenty of people at Foot Anstey who have gone down this route and are more than happy to discuss their journey with you (including me!).

Learn more about the differences between the SQE and CILEX, and here for all the details on our Legal Apprenticeship programme.

For any queries, please reach out to the Early Careers team.

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