With applications opening on 2 April, our Summer 2024 Legal virtual work experience programme will be open for applications soon! – Join Essex Legal Services (ELS), our in-house legal team, and delve into diverse areas of public sector law. Gain insights, learn from experienced lawyers, and develop your skills from 24th to 28th June 2024.

Tara completed the programme last year, so we got in touch with her to find out more about her experience:

“My name is Tara Adenubi, and I began the solicitor apprenticeship program with Essex County Council in January of 2023 after completing my A-levels in 2022. I decided to apply to ECC because of the apprenticeship program it was offering, which was a great opportunity to study Law while also gaining practical real-life experiences within the field…

…ECC provided the opportunity for me to continue studying law, gain experience, and do so debt-free. The range of departments within Essex Legal Services also means that I am open to a variety of experiences within different fields of law, which will further guide me in deciding which area of law to specialize in.”

“I have had multiple development opportunities while working here, including the opportunity to attend a cabinet meeting and a full council meeting. I have also had the opportunity to meet various influential people in the same career field, giving me the chance to ask any questions about the field and their journey…

…I have had the opportunity to assist in various exciting projects, including being able to assist with legal proceedings in our recent disputes. I have also had the opportunity to help with the process of contracts that ECC is a party to. It has given me the opportunity to see a contract from the very beginning, from understanding requirements before procuring services to awarding the contract to entering into an agreement…

…The main benefits of being a solicitor apprentice is the opportunity to work alongside solicitors who have gone through the same journey as you and know what it is like being a law student. I have been incredibly lucky to work alongside people who are encouraging and can provide advice and support, not only on the work that you do but also on the education aspect of the program. Being a solicitor apprentice also sets you up for financial freedom, as your education is being paid for by the employer, and you are also being compensated for your employment”

The main benefits of being a solicitor apprentice is the opportunity to work alongside solicitors who have gone through the same journey as you.

Tara Adenubi

“I balance studying with working as an apprentice by making full use of my study release day and utilising my spare time when I can. The university and ECC are also supportive of any educational needs that you may require…

…The most challenging aspect of the role is managing your time and balancing both aspects of the role. As a solicitor apprentice, 80 percent of your time is spent working and 20 percent is spent studying, meaning you need to manage your time effectively. The most rewarding aspect is that you have the opportunity to practice in your chosen field. You are doing real-life work and seeing real-life results. Everything you do at work has an outcome, and it is really motivating to see the results of it.”

“I decided to pursue the apprenticeship rather than the normal route of going to university because of the range of opportunities that the apprenticeship offers. I get to study at university as well as receive the benefits of an apprenticeship…

…I would say apply to ECC; the experience is amazing, and working for a public body organisation such as ECC will provide you with a range of experiences in different departments. The support and development opportunities are priceless.”

Applications open on 2 April – stay tuned or come back to this article on the day to find out more.