Mature students and career changers Start planning your future today
|
|
- Cecily Harrington
- 8 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Mature students and career changers Start planning your future today Supported by Legal process outsourcing: what you should know 1
2 Contents 2 Challenging assumptions and overcoming barriers 3 Research, think and plan ahead 4 Routes to qualifying 5 Funding opportunities 6 Increase your chances of success 8 Finding a period of recognised training 10 What does the law say? 11 Useful contacts 12 Case studies 2
3 Mature students and career changers Challenging assumptions and overcoming barriers The legal market is an extremely challenging one for aspiring solicitors with relentless competition for outstanding academic results, training positions and placements for that essential legal work experience. This environment can become even more challenging if you are a mature applicant and a career changer. However, mature entrants currently make up one of the fastest growing areas of admissions to the solicitors profession. Statistics from the Law Society Annual Statistical Report show that 8 per cent of solicitors admitted to the roll of solicitors in the year July 2013-July 2014 were over the age of 40. MALE FEMALE ALL ADMISSIONS AGE NO % NO % NO % Age is not a barrier to qualifying as a solicitor. Firms/organisations are increasingly recognising the invaluable insight and experience, beyond the law, that mature students and career changers can bring to a firm to help shape a dynamic and diverse workforce. An executive summary of the Law Society Annual Statistical Report is available on the Law Society website (see useful links). If you have decided to break into law it is very important to remain realistic about what the next few years ahead will require of you; strong commitment, time, hard work and perseverance. You should also ask yourself some questions like; what do I want to achieve, why do I want to achieve this, is it realistic and how am I going to achieve it? Be mindful that there are many qualified applicants pursuing a career as a solicitor, the environment is extremely competitive. You will need to work very hard on not only gaining relevant legal work experience but also on demonstrating how your knowledge and previous experience are relevant and can be transferred to the solicitors profession. Individuals often underestimate the level of research and time needed to prepare a quality application. It is strongly advised that you spend quality time preparing your applications for training positions. This is your opportunity to demonstrate to a firm/organisation that whilst you may not fit the mould of their usual recruits the breadth of life and work experience you bring with you would be a great asset. It is important when conducting your research that you choose your selected firms/organisations wisely. Many firms run open days, this will give you an insight into the culture of the firm and will help you decide to which firms your range of experience, qualities, knowledge and skills are best suited. The journey is long with many barriers but it is not impossible and your hard work can be rewarded with a satisfying and rewarding career in law. 2
4 Research, think and plan ahead Before making any big decisions or changes, take some time out to think about what you really want to get out of this change. Law is a very broad subject, you should give thought to the areas of law in which you have a genuine interest and may wish to practise. This will give you a clear steer to focus on firms that carry out these areas of work when applying for a training position. Given the extremely competitive environment, forward planning and preparation is essential. It might feel difficult to make these types of decisions so far in advance, but it is highly recommended that you very early on start conducting your research on potential law firms that you might want to apply to. Early and thorough research will give you an understanding of the type of work a law firm undertakes and which clients they work with, this can help you establish the type of law firm that you can see yourself working in. Unless your desire for a career in law has been triggered by previous experience and events that created a special interest in a specific area of the law, it is advisable to spend some time getting a better feel for and understanding of the legal environment and its various areas. A few ways of increasing your knowledge of the legal market might include: visiting libraries for advice on relevant literature spending time in a court and sitting in on a trial reading the legal press visiting law fairs speaking to professionals attending open days and evenings hosted by various law firms volunteering in legal environments Any time and effort spent will be for your own benefit in understanding and realising where your specific interests lie. It is also worth looking back at your previous experience and knowledge, depending on what industries and roles you have worked in before. You might be able to build your legal career on this by combining first hand industry insight with knowledge of the law. Find out what motivates you and where your interests are, as working as a solicitor will feel much more rewarding if you have an interest in the work that you do. If you have family or work commitments managing your time will be a challenge. You will need to have a long think about how you will prioritise your time as the journey is extremely time consuming with a lot of devoted time needed for studying, researching, gaining legal work experience and writing applications. You will also need to consider your financial situation as tuition fees are high and with the amount of dedicated hours required, you will need to evaluate whether you will be able to keep up a full time job. You might decide to work part-time or not at all and if so, make sure that you have done the financial calculations beforehand. It is also worth bearing in mind that from 1 August 2014, firms were no longer obliged to pay trainees a minimum salary above the national minimum wage which may mean you earning just above 11,000pa, this equates to less than 900 a month. The Law Society recommends that as a matter of good practice providers of training positions should pay their trainees a minimum salary of 20,276 in London and 18,183 outside of London, although you will find that the larger firms offer a starting salary higher than this. For some, this is likely to be a massive pay cut compared to previous earnings, something you must take into account when considering your financial situation over the next few years. Knowledge is key, the more time you spend researching what lies ahead of you and understanding the legal environment the more you will understand and can evaluate if this really is something for you. Studying law is difficult, it requires time and dedication and a whole new way of thinking. Make sure that you spend enough time evaluating what the next few years and your future life will look like, being a solicitor is rarely a 9-5 job. The more insight and knowledge that you have, the better equipped you will be to make an informed decision on whether the change is worth making. Further information on becoming a solicitor can be found on the Law Society website (see useful contacts). 3
5 Mature students and career changers Routes to qualifying If you do not hold a university degree nor the qualifications to apply for university you can undertake a Quality Assurance Agency recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma. This qualification prepares you for studying at university and most universities and colleges accept it as an equivalent to other level 3 qualifications. Most diplomas can be completed in a year but if you prefer to study over a longer period of time, some courses are offered in the evenings and some by distance learning. To find out more, visit the Access to Higher Education website (see useful contacts). Depending on your previous academic qualifications there are various routes to qualifying as a solicitor: Equivalent means Equivalent means allows the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to recognise the knowledge, skills, outcomes and standards which may have been achieved through other assessed and work-based learning. In these cases the SRA may grant exemption from all or part of the academic or vocational stages. To find out more visit the SRA website (see useful contacts). Qualifying law degree route The stages include: Law degree Legal Practice Course Period of recognised training including Professional Skills course Admission to the roll of solicitors Non-qualifying law degree route The stages include: Degree in any subject Common Professional Examination / Graduate Diploma in Law Legal Practice Course Period of recognised training including Professional Skills Course Admission to the roll of solicitors Chartered Institute of Legal Executive (CILEx) route This route involves taking examinations set by CILEx. Degree in law If you decide to undertake an undergraduate law degree, with the intention of qualifying as a solicitor, it is important that you study a qualifying law degree as this covers the required foundation subjects (Contract, Tort, Criminal law, Equity and Trusts, Law of the European Union, Property law, Constitutional and Administrative law). Make sure that you research the universities you are applying to as this can have an impact on your future legal career; search their website, prospectus and make time to go and visit them. If you are applying for undergraduate law programmes at universities such as Oxford, King s College and UCL you must also take a National Admissions Test for Law, known as LNAT. To find out more visit the LNAT website (see useful contacts). 4
6 Common Professional Examination / Graduate Diploma in law If you hold a non-law degree from a UK institution (or a foreign institution which the SRA considers to be an equivalent), to qualify as a solicitor you will be required to undertake a conversion course known as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or Common Professional Examination (CPE). You have up to three years to complete the conversion course. The cost of undertaking the course can be high with some institutions charging up to 10,000 depending on where you study. Further information on the conversion course can be found on the SRA website (see useful contacts). This course is also suitable for those that have acquired career experience or academic/vocational qualifications that the SRA consider to be equivalent to an undergraduate degree. This is known as accreditation of prior learning. You should formally apply to your CPE/GDL provider if you think you may be eligible. Further information on eligibility can be found on the SRA website (see useful contacts). Legal Practice Course Once you are academically qualified you will need to undertake the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and secure a period of recognised training before you can refer to yourself as a trainee solicitor. It is advisable to secure a training position before enrolling on the LPC. Many larger firms provide sponsorship for the whole course fee or contribute towards it once you have secured training with them. Some institutions charge over 14,000 for the course, it is therefore worth giving careful consideration if you are considering self funding the LPC. CILEx routes Another option is to qualify as a solicitor through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executive (CILEx) routes. These routes involve undertaking examinations set by CILEx whilst working within a legal environment. There are various routes to qualifying via CILEx, depending on whether you have a qualifying law degree or not. The recommended minimum qualification requirement is 4 GCSEs or equivalent, including English Language or English Literature. You would initially qualify as a chartered legal executive, you can then decide to work as a chartered legal executive or go on to qualify as a solicitor. Whilst you would still be required to undertake the LPC you might, at the SRA s discretion, be exempt from the mandatory practicebased training if it is deemed that the work experience you have gained is relevant and sufficient. This is however not a guarantee and you would need to contact the SRA directly to obtain full details. This route is attractive to some students as they feel better equipped to fund their studies as you earn as you learn, effectively studying part-time whilst working in a qualifying employment of a legal nature. To find out more about this route to qualification, visit the CILEx website (see useful contacts). Funding opportunities The Government s Student Loan Scheme is not available for post-graduate study but there are other funding options available such as scholarships, grants, loans and trust funds. The Law Society operates a Diversity Access Scheme which offers help to exceptional individuals who face or have overcome exceptional obstacles to qualify as a solicitor. There are three elements to the scheme; full and partial funding of the LPC, work placements and mentoring support. To find out more about various funding opportunities, visit the Junior Lawyers Division web page (see useful contacts). 5
7 Mature students and career changers Increase your chances of success No one can market you better than yourself. If you are a mature student and a career changer it might be more challenging to get a training position, depending on which firms you are targeting, but it is not impossible and much of it depends on how much time and effort you put in. Academic achievements To increase your chances and have more options of where you undertake your training, excellent academics is a must. Realistically, if you get anything below a 2.1 degree your chances of getting a training position with a larger firm are not impossible but they decrease significantly unless you can show that extenuating circumstances led to your lower results. With the current high level of competition many firms use A-level and degree grades as a way of sifting applications. It is therefore strongly advised that you aim to achieve a 2.1. Increasingly students are considering undertaking a Masters of Law, thinking that adding a few extra letters to their qualification might attract certain firms as it demonstrates a further in-depth legal knowledge. Many firms remain neutral about a Masters and would not rate this higher than candidates having undertaken relevant work experience. Gain legal work experience Legal work experience is key. With many candidates having excellent academics, gaining quality relevant work experience will enhance your application even further. Many firms rate relevant work experience as highly as excellent academics. Not having relevant experience can therefore limit your chances of securing a training position. Without legal work experience it will be very challenging trying to explain why you want to work in law if you do not have any experience to relate to. Although some placements stand out more than others, any legal work experience is better than none. There are many options available and it is important that you treat your applications for work experience as seriously as you would job applications. The competition is strong with many desperately trying to fill their CV with as much relevant content as possible to make them stand out when applying for training. Competition for vacation schemes is extremely high. Undertaking a vacation scheme is probably one of the best experiences you can get as once you manage to get your foot through the door, many firms will offer an interview for a training position if they are satisfied with your performance. Vacation placements are normally with larger law firms, sometimes paid and last between 1-4 weeks. This is a great opportunity to get a feel for a legal environment and start realising your preferences. Volunteering is another great way to gain valuable experience and make your CV stand out. Many free legal service providers, such as the Citizens Advice Bureau and law centres accept volunteers and some even offer development and training opportunities which will only be beneficial for your CV. Another option for volunteering is to get in touch with courts and see if they have any opportunities available. Getting a volunteer work placement at a law firm, although not very easy to achieve, is very beneficial. Send out letters expressing your desire to volunteer for them or visit various law firms and ask if they need any help at all. Even if it is shadowing a solicitor, it shows future employers you have a commitment to a career in law. You can search for local solicitors on the Law Society s website in the Find a solicitor section (see useful contacts). 6
8 Freelancing is another way of gaining valuable work experience, it can be everything from drafting contracts (which would then be approved by a qualified solicitor) to undertaking legal research and most often you can charge for the work you do. If you do have the opportunity to choose, it would be preferable to gain legal work experience in areas relevant to the firms you will be applying to for training. However, any additional activities that you undertake during your studies, whether it be structured work placements, volunteering, shadowing a solicitor or active involvement in your university s student union, will help you convince an employer that you are committed and dedicated to law. Make it your goal to gain the maximum amount of legal work experience. Being able to demonstrate legal work experience on your CV and comfortably talk about it shows employers that you have had exposure to the legal environment and that you have made an informed decision about your career change. Previous experience is your edge Whilst legal work experience is of great value, the advantage of being a mature student and career changer is all the first-hand experience and knowledge you have already gained from your previous roles and life experiences. Although academic excellence and legal work experience are the most important factors, employers also look at what other attributes, valuable insight and experience you can bring to a law firm/ organisation if they were to offer you a training position. It is up to you to clearly show your edge, you need to make sure that you market yourself to your best potential. Before you can impress an employer in person you need to do so on paper, you need to be able to demonstrate the link between your previous experience and the needs of the law firm/organisation to which you are applying. Not all your previous experience will be relevant or of interest to an employer, sit down and think about the knowledge, qualities, skills and insights that you have developed and more importantly, think about them laterally and how they are transferable. Think about what general transferable skills you have acquired that are relevant to the solicitors profession. A few examples might include: team work communication skills negotiation meeting deadlines problem solving This is where your previous experience gives you a clear advantage, it is important that you are able to demonstrate this in your applications. 7
9 mature students and career changers Finding a period of recognised training The final requirement to qualify as a solicitor is the mandatory two year practice-based training, including the Professional Skills Course, which is spent undertaking supervised work in a law firm or organisation authorised to take on trainee solicitors. A good place to start researching those that offer training positions is TARGETjobs Law (see useful contacts). Applying for training is very often an extremely daunting and time consuming exercise which requires patience and dedication. The reality is, you may receive multiple rejections or no replies and you must be prepared not to get your first choices. The more informed you are, the more carefully you can target law firms/organisations to which you are suitable. Depending on your interests, it might be worth having a look at the Crown Prosecution Service and the Government Legal Service which both offer training and have a positive approach to mature students. Make sure you do extensive research; read the legal press to keep abreast of current affairs and think about being commercially aware. Firms want to feel that you can relate to the needs of their clients. Visit law fairs and other events attended by solicitors, speak to your student adviser, sign up to relevant online network groups, attend open days, speak to anyone who works in a legal environment. Make use of every single opportunity to network with the professionals. Spend some time researching entries in law firms recruitment directories to assess which law firms would most value your previous skills and experience. When you have narrowed it down to a select few, find out all there is to know about the firms/organisations that interest you. This will give you an understanding of what type of firms/organisations they are and consider how you would fit in there. Research information such as: areas of practice information about them in the press their culture and ethos clients they work with the structure of their training retention rates after training any other information that could affect your decision 8
10 By knowing the firms/organisations you are applying to, you will understand their needs and can therefore tailor your applications specifically to each, demonstrating how your previous skills and experience fit those needs. You will most likely find it easier to market yourself and your experience to firms/organisations who have a connection with what you have done in the past. Before you can tell them what you can offer and how you are the right candidate, you need to know what they want. Depending on your previous career, and if you would like to stay in that industry in a legal capacity, your previous experience and specific industry insights, especially if this knowledge is of an industry which forms their client base, can be very beneficial for some law firms. This will also make you stand out considerably from the huge amount of applicants you will be up against. It is however important that you demonstrate these, and their relevance clearly in your applications. It is up to you to show how your previous work and life experience can be of great benefit to a potential employer. If your background is also very niche this could open up opportunities for you to apply to very specialised and niche law firms who would appreciate your industry insight and expertise combined with your legal knowledge. The importance of considering your previous experience, skill sets, qualification and other achievements when targeting law firms/organisations cannot be stressed enough. This is the one thing that makes you stand out from your younger, newly graduated competitors. Academic excellence is important but almost taken for granted by employers. Employers look out for many other attributes and skills that will be important and play a huge part as you progress through your legal career. These are skills and attributes that you have most likely already acquired in your previous career and now need to show that you possess. It is therefore vital that you spend a good amount of time on each application. Ideally you should allocate at least a day for each to ensure that you have perfected and tailored it specifically to each firm/ organisation that you are applying to. For more information on finding a training position and top tips for applications, visit the Junior Lawyers Division website (see useful contacts). 9
11 Mature students and career changers What does the law say? Age discrimination is when you are being unfairly treated because of your age. The Equality Act 2010 clearly states that it is unlawful to directly or indirectly discriminate against anyone because of their age. The law not only applies to all workers but also covers related areas such as further and higher education institutions, career guidance institutions, associations and vocational training providers. This means that regardless of your age, you should be able to qualify and be employed to work as a solicitor. The Default Retirement Age of 65 has also been abolished which means that you now have the right to request to carry on working past the retirement age. However, it will be up to your employer to approve or deny this request. In some instances, the law does allow age discrimination if this can be objectively justified but the employer needs to be able to clearly demonstrate how this has been justified. Most employers will have policies in place covering a wide range of HR areas to ensure that age discrimination is prevented and where policies allow such discrimination they need to be objectively justified. Age discrimination can occur both directly and indirectly, the Government Equalities Office defines the two types as: Direct age discrimination is where someone is unfairly treated in comparison with another. Indirect age discrimination is where a rule or practice applies to everyone, but puts a particular group of people at a disadvantage. Further information on age discrimination and an overview of the Equality Act 2010 can be found at the Government Equalities Office website (see useful contacts). 10
12 Useful contacts The Law Society For information on becoming a solicitor and how the Law Society can provide support throughout your career. The Junior Lawyers Division Support, advice and networking opportunities for students, trainees and newly qualified solicitors. Solicitors Regulation Authority For additional information on qualification requirements. Access to Higher Education Chartered Institute of Legal Executives The National Admissions Test for Law Government Equalities Office TARGETjobs Law For legal jobs and career guidance Apprenticeships For general information on apprenticeships 11
13 Mature students and career changers Case studies Anna Bramble Anna is a practising senior solicitor in high street firm Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors. Prior to her legal career, Anna had a very varied career including sales roles, working with the Metropolitan Police, the local government and various other managerial roles. Her route to qualification was through university where she achieved a 2:1 on her Bachelor of Laws degree, undertaking her training contract with Male and Wagland Solicitors. Anna initially specialised in both non-contentious employment law and wills, trusts and probate but now specialises in wills, probate, powers of attorney, estate planning and elderly client work. She did her LLM (legal practice) at Anglia polytechnic university during the first year of her training contract and achieved a pass. Why did you decide to become a solicitor? I became increasingly frustrated with the fact that men in my workplace were earning significantly more than me when we were performing the same job. I started studying A-levels and found A-level law very enjoyable and easy to learn so I decided to obtain a degree in law. What did you do before becoming a solicitor? I had various roles including; local government officer running planning administration, civil servant working with the Metropolitan Police, Sales Manager, PA to the Managing Director and other management roles. What was your route to qualification? After obtaining exceptional grades on my new A-levels, my previous A-level grades were not adequate, I was very much spoilt for choice when applying to universities. I decided to attend the University of Hertfordshire as it was close to home but also because it is one of the three universities in the UK that offer an accelerated program and it was much cheaper than other institutions. I completed my law degree in two years instead of three without any summer holidays and obtained a 2:1. Did you need to refresh your study skills and if so, how did you do it? Perhaps because I was studying A-levels prior to enrolling at university I did not feel the need to brush up on my study skills. How did you go about funding your studies? Having previously worked a full time as well as a part time job, I quit my full time work and kept the part time job when I began to study. I worked 30 hours per week doing bookkeeping for a small company throughout my degree and only quit my part time job when enrolling at the LPC. Did you find any particular challenges with being a mature student? No, quite the opposite. I believe that as a mature student you have a great benefit because you chose a subject with far more knowledge and insight so you remain fully committed throughout. Many younger students are not always certain about what career path they want to take and often study a subject because they have been advised to do so or because they didn t know what else to choose whereas mature students have made very informed decisions and are much more dedicated. How did you know which area of the law you wanted to work in? As a person, I do not like arguments and I am also not a big fan of capitalism - this, combined with my desire to work with law in a socially related aspect made me slip in to specialising in wills, probate, powers of attorney and elderly client work. My drive to help people is stronger than my money drive and I work very well with the elderly. Do you feel you faced any prejudice due to your age from prospective employers? If so, how would you advise that this can best be overcome? The short answer to that question is No. 12
14 At what stage of your route to qualification did you secure your training contract? How many applications did you submit? I must admit that I was rather lucky. When enrolling at university someone asked me if I had started researching and applying for training contracts, this was the first time I had heard of a training contract. I did my research and sent out six applications during the first few months at university and I was called for an interview shortly after. When I did not hear back from the firm who had interviewed me, I decided to follow it up with a phone call. The conversation was successful and they ended up offering me a training contract over the phone. What is your current role? Senior solicitor in the Wills & Probate Department. What advice would you give to anyone considering embarking on a career as a solicitor as a mature student? Go ahead and try - if you set your mind on something as a mature student, you can achieve it! 13
15 Mature students and career changers Mark Pentecost Prior to embarking on a law career, Mark worked in cancer research, as a professional actor and later on in insurance. A redundancy led him to take on work for a solicitor friend and when realising how much he enjoyed it and just how suitable his skill set was, he decided to become a solicitor. Mark acquired his GDL through distance learning and did the LPC part time, both separately over two years. He is currently undertaking his training contract with general practice high street firm Sanderson McCreath & Edney Solicitors and will qualify as a solicitor in January Why did you decide to become a solicitor? I was made redundant from a management role that I had been doing for some years in insurance after being a personal injury senior claims handler/adjuster. A solicitor friend started putting some work my way such as proofing witnesses and clerking at court and I really enjoyed it. What I realised early on was that the work of a solicitor uses all the skills I have developed over the years and it is a role that involves plenty of variety. What did you do before becoming a solicitor? I worked in cancer research, went to university to study drama and theology, worked as a professional actor for 10 years and then worked in insurance as a claims handler, senior technical manager, audit manager and ops manager. What was your route to qualification? CPE by distance learning at Northumbria University ( ), LPC part time also at Northumbria ( ) and training contract at Sanderson McCreath & Edney Solicitors January 2012 to January Did you need to refresh your study skills (such as essay writing etc) and if so, how did you do it? Yes I did! Essay writing in a legal context is totally different to critical analysis in the arts. I had to start from scratch and to help I took advantage of tutorials with lecturers to go over practice answers. How did you go about funding your studies? Self funded, largely from the settlement I received from my previous employer. Did you find any particular challenges with being a mature student? Juggling full time work and a family life was a challenge! How did you know which area of the law you wanted to work in? I didn t really. I quite deliberately kept an open mind because you don t know if you ll enjoy an area of law until you try it. Luckily I m in a general practice high street firm so I haven t needed to specialise just yet. Do you feel you faced any prejudice due to your age from prospective employers? If so, how would you advise that this can best be overcome? Yes I did, although it was never overt. It was frustrating not being shortlisted for training contracts when younger applicants were; and when I knew I was the stronger applicant in terms of academics and legal work experience. All you can do is try not to become despondent and make as much of the skills you have acquired and how they would be useful to your potential employer as possible. At what stage of your route to qualification did you secure your training contract? How many applications did you submit? 5 months after completing the LPC and after applying to about 100. What is your current role? Trainee solicitor, due to qualify in January My present firm have offered me an assistant solicitor role upon qualification. What advice would you give to anyone considering embarking on a career as a solicitor as a mature student? Try not to become disheartened and cynical. Keep a positive attitude. Do as much research into the legal market as you can and network as much as possible. Think about how to effectively market your experience and skills based on your research in the legal market and have clear goals and objectives. Be open to advice and act on it. Get involved in the Junior Lawyers Division (JLD), attend their free events and use their online resources. Make contacts in your local JLD. Remember, there are firms out there who will value your skills and experience. As for the others, chances are you wouldn t really enjoy working there anyway. See my article in Lawyer2b: survival guide for career changers: 14
16 113 Chancery Lane London WC2A 1PL Dx 56 Lon/Chancery Ln t: f:
Careers in the legal profession in England & Wales Frequently Asked Questions
Careers in the legal profession in England & Wales Frequently Asked Questions This information sheet covers some of the key questions about a career in the legal profession in England and Wales. This information
More informationCAREERS AND QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE. Earn As You Learn: Your best route to a career as a lawyer
CAREERS AND QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE Earn As You Learn: Your best route to a career as a lawyer THINKING OF A CAREER IN LAW? The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives offers unparalleled access to a flexible
More informationCandidate Guide. Legal Trainee Scheme 2016 Application Guidance
Legal Trainee Scheme 2016 Application Guidance 1 Contents The Offer Recruitment Process Eligibility Requirements Security Check Feedback Application Questions Recruitment Process Schedule Candidates Declaring
More informationA training contract with TWM Solicitors LLP
A training contract with TWM Solicitors LLP Professional and personable. About us At TWM Solicitors we can trace our roots back over 200 years, and we are looking to build on these solid foundations by
More informationManaging Your Career Tips and Tools for Self-Reflection
Managing Your Career Tips and Tools for Self-Reflection Your career may well be the primary vehicle for satisfying many of your personal needs, i.e. your need to feel a sense of belonging, to feel appreciated
More informationYour guide to Using a solicitor
www.lawsociety.org.uk 1 Most of us need expert legal help at some time in our lives. Some of the most common issues are to do with buying a house, getting a divorce or making a will. But you might also
More informationCareers. Accountants and financial planners who care about your future. Accountants Business Advisers Financial Planners
Careers Accountants and financial planners who care about your future Accountants Business Advisers Financial Planners Contents and potentially priceless. Chapter 1. Our people 2. School leavers 3. Work
More informationTHE CILEx GUIDE TO LEGAL QUALIFICATIONS
THE CILEx GUIDE TO LEGAL QUALIFICATIONS YOUR BEST ROUTE TO A CAREER IN LAW ABOUT THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF LEGAL EXECUTIVES Founded in 1963 the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) is the professional
More informationLEVEL 3 LEGAL SERVICES APPRENTICE QUALIFICATIONS FACTSHEET
LEVEL 3 LEGAL SERVICES APPRENTICE QUALIFICATIONS FACTSHEET WHAT ARE THE CILEx LEVEL 3 LEGAL SERVICES APPRENTICE QUALIFICATIONS? What is an Apprenticeship? Apprenticeships are a combination of on-the-job
More information1. Outline the qualifications and training required to become a barrister and solicitor, and describe the work each profession carries out.
AQA LAW - AS EXAMINATIONS Unit 1 - LAW01 - Law Making and the Legal System THE LEGAL PROFESSIONS BARRISTERS and SOLICITORS 1. Outline the qualifications and training required to become a barrister and
More informationJob Search. How to make your job search successful
Job Search How to make your job search successful Pick a major that relates to a specific job or occupation. Get a great GPA. Participate in leadership activities. Secure internships, summer jobs, part-time
More informationA Career in the Legal Profession in Scotland - Frequently Asked Questions
A Career in the Legal Profession in Scotland - Frequently Asked Questions This information sheet covers some of the key questions about a career in the legal profession in Scotland. It is particularly
More informationSETTING UP YOUR OWN LEGAL BUSINESS
SETTING UP YOUR OWN LEGAL BUSINESS CONTENTS Why do I want my own business? 2 Your business idea 3 Areas of competence and qualifications 4 Reserved legal activities 5 Practice rights 6 What can I call
More informationSample interview question list
Sample interview question list Category A Introductory questions 1. Tell me about yourself. 2. Why would you like to work for this organisation? 3. So what attracts you to this particular opportunity?
More informationNottingham Trent University Course Specification
Nottingham Trent University Course Specification Basic Course Information 1. Awarding Institution: Nottingham Trent University 2. School/Campus: Law/City 3. Final Award, Course Title and LLM Legal Practice
More informationThe 2014 Ultimate Career Guide
The 2014 Ultimate Career Guide Contents: 1. Explore Your Ideal Career Options 2. Prepare For Your Ideal Career 3. Find a Job in Your Ideal Career 4. Succeed in Your Ideal Career 5. Four of the Fastest
More informationL5 Management and Leadership Qualifications
L5 anagement and Leadership Qualifications Introduction Before starting a course that leads to a management qualification it is important to choose the correct level of study. Your decision will need to
More informationEmployment Rights and Responsibilities
Employment Rights and Responsibilities As you work through this section, you will need to be clear about your own understanding of your occupation, the industry in which you work and the sector in which
More informationThe Flying Start Degree Programme Henley Business School at the University of Reading
The Flying Start Degree Programme Henley Business School at the University of Reading Start your degree Start your career Realise your potential BA Accounting and Business (NN41) Welcome This booklet will
More informationInformation for Parents and Students
Information for Parents and Students CONTENTS Welcome... 3 Obtaining entry into medicine... 4 What should I do now? Three years from completing high school... 8 Two years from completing high school...
More informationTACKLING YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT THROUGH ENTERPRISE
TACKLING YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT THROUGH ENTERPRISE In partnership with: A report by The Prince s Trust and The Royal Bank of Scotland Group FOREWORD We have been helping disadvantaged young people to set up
More informationOCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS Pay & Benefits for working for Enfield
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS Pay & Benefits for working for Enfield We are committed to offering you the best employment benefits that we can. Below are the details of the kinds of benefits that you can enjoy
More informationTAKE THE NEXT STEP AND BECOME AN ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT...
TAKE THE NEXT STEP AND BECOME AN ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT...... with the AAT-ACA Fast Track and enjoy a highly rewarding career in accountancy, finance and business Business With Confidence icaew.com/aat
More informationA Guide to Cover Letter Writing
A Guide to Cover Letter Writing Contents What is a Cover Letter?... 2 Before you get started - Do your Research... 3 Formatting the letter... 4 Cover letter content... 5 Section 1 - Opening... 5 Section
More informationAppointment details Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Accounting
Appointment details Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Accounting Closing date -20 th June 2014 Ref: R140147 Contents About Aston University Welcome from the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Julia King Job description
More informationLaw Careers for Law Students
Law Careers for Law Students Version 8.13 You are advised to check material facts as although every effort has been made to ensure that the information given in this leaflet is up-to-date, reviews of legal
More informationQLTS. Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme FAST TRACK TRAINING TO BECOMING A DUAL QUALIFIED SOLICITOR OF ENGLAND AND WALES
QLTS Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme FAST TRACK TRAINING TO BECOMING A DUAL QUALIFIED SOLICITOR OF ENGLAND AND WALES www.qltstraining.co.uk The Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS) came into force
More informationLeadership and Management Training
Bury College Business Solutions Leadership and Management Training The employers choice. For all your company training needs. Bury College Business Solutions - Customer Excellence Award Winner 2011 Develop
More informationA POSITIVE CAREER CHOICE. www.ccwales.org.uk
A POSITIVE CAREER CHOICE www.ccwales.org.uk Looking for work? THIS JOB ADVERT may not be real, but as demand for care services is ever increasing there are opportunities in social care. This booklet covers
More informationwww.business.mmu.ac.uk/pro-accounting Faculty of Business and Law Business School
Professional Accounting A part-time programme, developed in partnership with AAT and ICAEW, providing an accelerated route to achieving your professional accountancy qualifications. Faculty of Business
More informationHOW TO PREPARE FOR A MEDICAL CAREER
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MEDICAL CAREER Starting a health care career is easier than you think when you ve done your research, understand which medical career fits your personality and pursue training from
More informationIntroduction to a Career in Law 2008. Judith Baines Careers Service
Introduction to a Career in Law 2008 Judith Baines Careers Service This session Trends in the legal profession Route to qualification Where to train and what employers look for Researching legal careers
More information15 Most Typically Used Interview Questions and Answers
15 Most Typically Used Interview Questions and Answers According to the reports made in thousands of job interviews, done at ninety seven big companies in the United States, we selected the 15 most commonly
More informationA bigger family, a better future.
A bigger family, a better future. Child sponsorship is changing for the better Sponsors like you are a vital part of our big, supportive family. Like us, you want the very best for your sponsored child.
More informationMOST FREQUENTLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS. 1. Why don t you tell me about yourself? 2. Why should I hire you?
MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Why don t you tell me about yourself? The interviewer does not want to know your life history! He or she wants you to tell how your background relates to doing
More informationWork based learning. Executive summary. Background
Work based learning Executive summary Background The training contract stage of qualifying as a solicitor is a prime example of 'work based learning' (WBL), a phrase that generally describes the learning
More informationHigher Education studies in Sweden
Higher Education studies in Sweden HIGHER EDUCATION STUDIES IN SWEDEN Published by Swedish Council for Higher Education 2014, Hylte tryck PHOTO: Erik Lundback (cover, p. 5, 6, 11, 13) Eva Dalin (p. 8-9,
More informationHow to become a solicitor
How to become a solicitor Table of contents 1 The Law Society of Ireland is the educational, representative and regulatory body of the solicitors profession in Ireland. It exercises statutory functions
More informationBA (Hons) Professional Accounting
The University for World-Class Professionals BA (Hons) Professional Accounting Part-time degree A part-time programme, developed in partnership with AAT and ICAEW, providing an accelerated route to achieving
More informationTop 40 Career Change Tips. Copyright 2013 Position Ignition Top 40 Career Change Tips www.positionignition.com www.careerignitionclub.
Top 40 Career Change Tips 1 Hello! Career changes can be overwhelming, challenging, exciting, scary, fun or frustrating-many of us have found them to be all of the above! You could be changing careers
More informationSchool Of Law. The Sheffield Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice. Shape your future.
School Of Law. The Sheffield Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice Shape your future. Welcome The University of Sheffield is one of only two Russell Group Universities to offer a Legal Practice Course
More informationResponse to Legal Education and Training Review Discussion Paper 02/2011 on Equality, Diversity and Social Mobility.
www.womensolicitors.org.uk Response to Legal Education and Training Review Discussion Paper 02/2011 on Equality, Diversity and Social Mobility. About the Association of Women Solicitors The Association
More informationINSPIRE YOUR FUTURE WORKFORCE
INSPIRE YOUR FUTURE WORKFORCE Work Experience Placements A Guide for Employers 01204 482036 1 WORK EXPERIENCE PLACEMENTS A Guide for Employers INSPIRE YOUR FUTURE WORKFORCE Thank you for providing our
More informationFOCUS ON. Business success through training & recruitment. invest in your workforce and gain the competitive edge
FOCUS ON Business success through training & recruitment invest in your workforce and gain the competitive edge Everything we do at Lincoln College is with your success in mind. We live in a fast-paced,
More informationRe: Training for a career in accountancy and financial services
Re: Training for a career in accountancy and financial services www.krestonreeves.com Accounts and Outsourcing Audit and Assurance Business Advisory Corporate Finance Financial Planning Forensic Accounting
More informationYour foundation degree...what next?
Your foundation degree...what next? Degrees Where to continue to study There are several options open: At your current institution - If an institution offers a foundation degree, it must also provide a
More informationNewspaper Activities for Students
Newspaper Activities for Students Newspaper Activities for Students Page 2 Higher Learning By the year 2010, millions of the jobs available in the United States will require more than a high school diploma.
More informationGRADUATE FAST -TRACK DIPLOMA
GRADUATE FAST -TRACK DIPLOMA FOR LAW AND GDL GRADUATES GRADUATE FAST -TRACK DIPLOMA Who s this for? The CILEx Graduate Fast-track Diploma is for qualifying law and GDL 1 graduates 2 who want to qualify
More informationGuide to Higher Level Apprenticeships
Guide to Higher Level Apprenticeships www.nwrc.ac.uk 02 Employ Clever with a Higher Level Apprenticeship North West Regional College, supported by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL), Ulster
More informationOur taught Masters awards in Law:
School Our taught Masters awards in : Legal Practice Family Healthcare and Ethics International Trade and Commerce International Sports 2 School why choose our law school for your? Welcome to Staffordshire
More informationAverage producers can easily increase their production in a larger office with more market share.
The 10 Keys to Successfully Recruiting Experienced Agents by Judy LaDeur Understand whom you are hiring. Don t make the mistake of only wanting the best agents or those from offices above you in market
More informationFaculty of Science and Engineering Placements. Stand out from the competition! Be prepared for your Interviews
Faculty of Science and Engineering Placements Stand out from the competition! Be prepared for your Interviews Interviews Getting an invitation to attend for an interview means you has passed the first
More informationGRADUATE FAST-TRACK DIPLOMA
GRADUATE FAST-TRACK DIPLOMA FOR LAW AND GDL GRADUATES GRADUATE FAST-TRACK DIPLOMA Who s this for? The CILEx Graduate Fast-track Diploma is for law and GDL 1 graduates 2 who want to become lawyers without
More informationRecruitment and retention strategy Safeguarding and Social Care Division. What is the recruitment and retention strategy? 2. How was it developed?
Contents What is the recruitment and retention strategy? 2 How was it developed? 2 Newcastle story where were we? 2 Newcastle story where are we now? 3 Grow your own scheme 4 Progression 4 NQSW support
More informationDepartment for International Development Graduate Development Scheme 2015 Frequently Asked Questions
Department for International Development Graduate Development Scheme 2015 Frequently Asked Questions 1. What qualifications do I need? You will need to have gained the relevant 2.1 degree or above in 2014
More informationMaking the most of Work Experience
Making the most of Work Experience This guide is part of the Getting Started series. For more guides in the series please visit the website below. www.twitter.com/mmu_careers www.facebook.com/careersmmu
More informationBIS RESEARCH PAPER NUMBER 222a. Traineeships: First Year Process Evaluation. Executive Summary MARCH 2015
BIS RESEARCH PAPER NUMBER 222a Traineeships: First Year Process Evaluation Executive Summary MARCH 2015 Executive Summary Background and methodology This executive summary presents the topline findings
More informationHertfordshire Higher Education Consortium Sports Studies
Hertfordshire Higher Education Consortium Sports Studies Foundation Degree B A C Foundation Degree Foundation Degree What is a Foundation Degree? Foundation Degrees are university level degree courses
More informationNational Deaf Children s Society (NDCS) submission to Work and Pensions Select Committee inquiry
National Deaf Children s Society (NDCS) submission to Work and Pensions Select Committee inquiry Employment support for disabled people: Access to Work Summary Access to Work (AtW) plays a vital role in
More informationGRADUATE SCHOOL GUIDE
GRADUATE SCHOOL GUIDE Applying to graduate school is an exciting process, but it can be time consuming. We encourage you to learn as much as you can about the graduate school admissions process and the
More informationCommon Best Practice code FoR HiGH-Quality internships
Common Best Practice code FoR HiGH-Quality internships Gateways to the Professions collaborative Forum about us The Gateways to the Professions Collaborative Forum is an ad hoc advisory body. Its membership
More informationInternships. A good practice guide from The Chartered Insurance Institute A CENTURY OF PROFESSIONALISM
Internships A good practice guide from The Chartered Insurance Institute A CENTURY OF PROFESSIONALISM Introduction As the professional body for insurance and financial services, the CII is committed to
More informationThe University for World-Class Professionals. Legal Services Apprenticeships
The University for World-Class Professionals Legal Services Apprenticeships I am delighted to chair this initiative at a time when the legal sector is facing some of the most significant changes in its
More information50 Tough Interview Questions
You and Your Accomplishments 1. Tell me a little about yourself. 50 Tough Interview Questions Because this is often the opening question, be careful that you don t run off at the mouth. Keep your answer
More informationMasterclass Series. Sales Training Courses
Masterclass Series of Sales Training Courses Testimonials I always enjoy how I feel after a durhamlane workshop empowered and motivated to attack my sales objectives. Cost effective and very good value
More informationNETWORKING GUIDE CONTRIBUTOR: CAREERS SERVICE, ANNA PERSSON
NETWORKING GUIDE CONTRIBUTOR: CAREERS SERVICE, ANNA PERSSON NETWORK YOUR WAY TO A JOB Networking is an important part of any job search. It s the process of establishing contacts for the purpose of gathering
More informationStep 1 Self-assessment (Who am I? What do I have to offer?)
Your Job Search Your job search is a process which begins during your studies, when you start thinking about life after you ve completed your studies. It is an ongoing process, from your first job you
More informationInvestors in People First Assessment Report
Investors in People First Assessment Report K.H.Construction Cambridge Assessor: Lesley E Ling On-site Date/s: 3 rd September 2008. Recognition Date: Contents 1. Introduction Page 2 2. Assessment and Client
More informationCOMPLETING AN APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATION FORM - TOP TIPS!
COMPLETING AN APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATION FORM - TOP TIPS! GENERAL Make sure you feel ready to commit to an apprenticeship and meet the expectations of an employer before you apply. Make sure you have enough
More informationProfessional Qualifications
Corporate Training & Professional Development Professional Qualifications University of Hertfordshire Business School Plug into your true potential Contents Turning potential into performance 3 A leading
More informationWitness information. Investigations
Witness information Investigations We are the nursing and midwifery regulator for England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Islands. We exist to safeguard the health and wellbeing of the public.
More informationVACANCY NOTICE HM REVENUE AND CUSTOMS PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER JUNE 2015
VACANCY NOTICE HM REVENUE AND CUSTOMS PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER JUNE 2015 Page 1 of 11 TABLE OF CONTENTS HEADLINE INFORMATION... 3 VACANCY DESCRIPTION... 4 THE POST... 4 WORK OF THE DEPARTMENT... 5 THE PERSON
More informationSponsored Degree Programme The Capgemini Sponsored Degree Programme
Spons Degree Programme The Capgemini Sponsored Degree Programme 2 Passionate about Information Technology? Excited by a career in Software Engineering? Then take the opportunity to work for one of the
More informationChildcare, Health and Care
Childcare, Health and Care Do you aspire to pursue a career within the education, health or care sector? Whether you are looking for a career as a nursery assistant, nursery officer, early year s practitioner,
More informationCareers Advisers Day 16 September 2010. Internal Use Only - Not to be disclosed outside Standard Life group
Careers Advisers Day 16 September 2010 Introduction to Careers Advisers Day Sandy Begbie Group People & Transformation Director Standard Life context Standard Life is a leading long term savings and investment
More informationThe Flying Start Degree Programme Henley Business School at the University of Reading
The Flying Start Degree Programme Henley Business School at the University of Reading Start your degree Start your career Realise your potential BA Accounting and Business (NN41) The Flying Start Degree
More informationDr Andrew Clark Director of Legal Studies
Dr Andrew Clark Director of Legal Studies A fascinating, challenging and diverse subject A highly respected degree which serves as preparation for a wide range of careers Cognitive skills: analysing rules,
More information1. What types of organisation do you fund? 2. Do you give grants for individual children and young people?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Who can apply for a grant? 1. What types of organisation do you fund? 2. Do you give grants for individual children and young people? 3. Some of the young people our organisation
More informationQualification Specification. Higher Apprenticeship in Retail Management Level 4 (England)
Qualification Specification Higher Apprenticeship in Retail Management Level 4 (England) Version 2.0 (July 2016) Page 1 of 21 This qualification specification covers the following qualifications: Qualification
More informationThe complete guide to becoming a mortgage advisor
The complete guide to becoming a mortgage advisor Mortgage advisors help people with one of the biggest purchases of their lives, helping them to secure a mortage to buy or re-mortgage property. If you
More informationYour guide to finding a job
Your guide to finding a job Inside: your questions answered Planning your strategy Being creative with your approach Identifying the right partners INSPIRING LEARNING 2 Don t let anything hold you back
More informationSPECIALIST 24 HR CRIMINAL DEFENCE
SPECIALIST 24 HR CRIMINAL DEFENCE What happens at the Police Station? Often the most important stage in any case is what happens in the police station. In most cases you will be under arrest and it may
More informationContents. Why study with us? 3. Student support 4. Business courses 5. Criminal justice courses 7
University of Essex Online Prospectus 2012 2013 About us University of Essex Online courses are available to both UK and international students and enable students to benefit from a flexible approach to
More informationApprenticeship in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
Apprenticeship in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Questions and Answers to help you decide! What is the training that Monarch offers? The training that we are offering is an Aircraft Engineering Apprenticeship
More informationWork experience Choosing a course Qualifications and admissions tests Personal statement The application form Interviews Other
APPLICATIONS FOR VETERINARY MEDICINE: FAQS So you ve decided to apply for veterinary medicine, but what do you need to do? How do you apply? And what happens if you don t get in? We ve compiled some answers
More informationPERSONAL AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT PLANNING GUIDANCE NOTES
PERSONAL AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT PLANNING GUIDANCE NOTES When your passions and talents coincide with the needs of the world, that is your vocation. Aristotle kos/rev.4/02-11-06 1 Table of Contents Section
More informationA guide to help you make the most of Your Choice. Employee Guide
A guide to help you make the most of Your Choice Employee Guide This guide is to help you understand a bit more about Your Choice. This is the total package of benefits that you may be eligible for as
More informationWe welcome applications from mature. A guide for undergraduate mature students. Returning to learning
/law A guide for undergraduate mature students www.york.ac.uk We welcome applications from mature students. Your wealth of experience and skills can make a valuable contribution to your course and your
More informationParalegal Employment Opportunities at Aston Carter Solicitors. May 2012
Paralegal Employment Opportunities at Aston Carter Solicitors May 2012 1 Getting started This employment package aims to give you information about a fantastic employment opportunity at Aston Carter Solicitors.
More informationPersonal Development Planning and eportfolio. Student Guide
Personal Development Planning and eportfolio Student Guide 1 Introduction PDP helps you to develop the skills you need to take responsibility for your learning, development and career progression. Engaging
More informationNEGOTIATING STRATEGIES
NEGOTIATING STRATEGIES Career Services GSU 309 768-4287 www.hartford.edu/career An aspect of the job search process that people tend to have the most questions about is negotiating; how does one go about
More informationUniversity of Bradford N/A N/A N/A
UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD Faculty of Social Sciences Bradford Centre for International Development Programme title: MSc in Development and Project Planning Awarding and teaching institution: Final award and
More informationKing s College London
King s College London Initial Teacher Education inspection report Provider address Professional School of Social Science and Public Policy Department of Educational and Professional Studies Franklin Wilkins
More informationEQUAL OPPORTUNITIES & DIVERSITY POLICY
1. General dh Recruitment Hereford & Worcester embraces diversity and will seek to promote the benefits of diversity in all of our business activities. We will seek to develop a business culture that reflects
More informationACCESS TO JUSTICE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF CUTS TO LEGAL AID THE CHANGING FACE OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION
ACCESS TO JUSTICE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF CUTS TO LEGAL AID THE CHANGING FACE OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION A short paper presented on 19 th March 2014 to a symposium organised by the University of Warwick
More informationCB7. Guide for separated parents: children and the family courts. Help with deciding what should happen with your children
CB7 Guide for separated parents: children and the family courts Deciding what should happen to your children when you and your partner have split up can be difficult. You might not be able to agree who
More informationDEVELOPING JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES
DEVELOPING JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES DEVELOPING JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES Skill development is one component of a job search. A professional resume and well-defined interviewing skills will enable the job seeker
More informationOCIALWORK A PEOPLE PROFESSION A POSITIVE CAREER CHOICE ME? www.ccwales.org.uk CLEAR THINKING PATIENT HONEST A TEAM PLAYER DECISION MAKER
OCIALWORK A PEOPLE PROFESSION CLEAR THINKING PATIENT HONEST DECISION MAKER A TEAM PLAYER CALM UNDER PRESSURE LISTENER ME? A POSITIVE CAREER CHOICE www.ccwales.org.uk OCIALWORK - A PEOPLE P This booklet,
More informationBUSINESS SCHOOL. General. General Business. Build your future the INTEC way
BUSINESS SCHOOL General General Business Build your future the INTEC way CONTENTS INTEC Business School 2 START HERE! Your guide to careers in Business 3 INTEC COURSES INTRODUCTORY COURSES Business Administration
More informationThe Claude Littner Business School
The Claude Littner Business School A connected education: Close links with professional business bodies. The Claude Littner Business School is based in the heart of west London, at the centre of a highly
More information