In September 2022, Mongiwe (Monique) Nhliziyo embarked on a journey that has challenged, inspired and shaped her in ways she never expected. Straight out of completing her A-levels, she joined Irwin Mitchell LLP as a Solicitor Apprentice in the Public Law and Human Rights department. We spoke to Monique to find out more about her journey as a Solicitor Apprentice.
Written by April Baniqued. Published 09 June 2025.
I always knew I wanted to qualify as a solicitor and my goal was to go through the traditional route of studying at university, until a conversation with my dad, a secondary school teacher, changed everything. He mentioned a careers fair at his school where he’d learned about solicitor apprenticeships and my curiosity was piqued. After researching the programme and speaking to people who had taken this path, I was completely sold on the idea.
Why I chose a Solicitor Apprenticeship
For many aspiring lawyers, the university route is often seen as the default. I, too, considered it, but the solicitor apprenticeship route stood out as a unique opportunity to gain practical experience while studying for my degree and professional qualifications. It offered a chance to immerse myself in real legal work, develop essential skills and avoid the financial burden of student loans.
When I tell people about my apprenticeship, I’m often met with curiosity and, at times, misconceptions. Some assume that solicitor apprenticeships are a lesser route to qualification or that apprentices are given only administrative tasks. Others believe that without a traditional university experience, I might be missing out on networking and social opportunities. However, my experience has shown me otherwise.
Challenging misconceptions
1. “You won’t be given real responsibility.”
One of my biggest initial concerns was whether I would be trusted with meaningful legal work. However, from the very beginning, I have been involved in a range of tasks, working alongside paralegals, solicitors and senior lawyers. Whether assisting with complex casework, preparing legal documents or attending client meetings, I have consistently been encouraged to take ownership of my work, always with the right level of supervision and support.
2. “You’ll miss out on the social aspects of university.”
While solicitor apprenticeships follow a structured work schedule, that doesn’t mean missing out on a social or student experience. Studying with The University of Law, I engage with a network of fellow apprentices across the country who I can share my experience with. At work, I have had the chance to participate in firm-wide initiatives, networking events and team socials, all of which have helped me build connections and develop both personally and professionally. On top of that, Irwin Mitchell offers up to 25 days of annual leave, which has meant plenty of summer getaways with my university friends and much-needed catch-ups.
3. “Apprenticeships are easier than the traditional route.”
Balancing full-time work with studying is no easy feat. My week consists of four days at the firm and one dedicated study day to focus on my law degree. The challenge lies in managing client work, case deadlines and academic assignments simultaneously. However, this approach has strengthened my time management skills and allowed me to apply knowledge in real-time legal scenarios, making the learning experience much more dynamic.
The benefits of the Solicitor Apprenticeship route
The solicitor apprenticeship pathway offers a wealth of advantages, particularly in building practical legal experience. By the time I qualify, I will have six years of hands-on exposure to real legal work.
Additionally, this route makes the legal profession more accessible. University tuition and maintenance fees can be a barrier for many, but apprenticeships provide an alternative that allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the legal field without the financial burden of student debt. This is something I am particularly passionate about, as I believe greater accessibility leads to a more representative and inclusive profession.
Looking ahead
As I progress through my apprenticeship, I continue to learn, develop and refine my legal skills. The experience has reinforced my passion for public law and human rights, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. For anyone considering a solicitor apprenticeship, my advice would be to keep an open mind, embrace the challenges and take every opportunity to grow.
Choosing this path has been one of the best decisions I have made. I hope that by sharing my journey, I can inspire others to explore the solicitor apprenticeship route with confidence. The legal profession is evolving and there is no single “right” way to qualify; what matters most is finding the path that aligns with your ambitions and learning style.
Find out more about the benefits of studying a solicitor apprenticeship and the three apprenticeship routes we offer on our dedicated Apprenticeships page.
