Global law firm Hogan Lovells has launched a new paralegal apprenticeship scheme with The University of Law, offering aspiring paralegals an alternative route into the profession.
The two year programme, delivered by The University of Law in partnership with apprenticeship specialists Damar Training, provides school leavers with the opportunity to study for a paralegal apprenticeship while at the same time allowing Hogan Lovells to grow their own talent from a diverse range of backgrounds.
The Hogan Lovells apprenticeship combines the foundation-level knowledge required for a new entrant into legal office with the more technical rigour expected of a high-performing paralegal and will be tailored to job specific roles in the firm’s real estate and corporate finance departments. Hogan Lovells will offer apprenticeships at its Birmingham office with the first apprentice starting in January 2017.
Michael Gallimore, head of the Legal Services Centre at Hogan Lovells, said: “This is a first for Hogan Lovells and important development for us in continuing to ensure that we are finding the best talent for the business. Apprenticeships offer access to highly capable and bright students who are seeking to forge a career in law, via an alternative path. We look forward to welcoming our first apprentice to the firm in early 2017e.”
Jason O’Malley, Director of Apprenticeships at The University of Law, said: “The University of Law is committed to supporting widening access to law. We are looking forward to working with Hogan Lovells on this innovative apprenticeship that has been designed to meet the specific needs of the firm’s Birmingham business. This paralegal apprenticeship route provides an excellent opportunity for talented young people to enter the legal profession, gaining valuable training both through academic study and on the job experience.”
Jonathan Bourne, Managing Director of Damar Limited, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Hogan Lovells on paralegal apprenticeships. Such programmes provide firms with access to a breadth of young talent and enable apprentices to not only acquire relevant legal knowledge and skills but also develop the wider business competence required by law firms and their clients.”
The University of Law works with leading law firms to provide a range of apprenticeships, from school leaver to degree and post-graduate levels. It has a longstanding strategic partnership with Damar Training which reflects both providers’ commitment to embrace new pathways and to offer a comprehensive service for employers and apprentices alike, from apprentice recruitment through to qualification.