Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has launched a paralegal apprenticeship scheme in its Manchester legal services centre.
The first intake of Freshfields apprentices will begin in October 2016.
The academic side of the apprenticeship will be delivered by The University of Law in partnership with Damar Training.
Apprentices will cover key subject areas including: the English legal system; corporate law, contract law; and legal and business skills.
Freshfields legal services centre head Olivia Balson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the Legal Services Centre and for our future apprentices. We want to encourage wider access to law and possibilities for progression for the very best talents. These apprenticeships offer a flexible route for talented students to join the legal profession and opportunities to those already in the firm to nurture these talents.”
In April, Freshfields Manchester head Gareth Stephenson told Lawyer 2B that Freshfields hoped to open up apprenticeships as a route full qualification as a solicitor.
“I wouldn’t rule anything out at this stage,” Stephenson told Lawyer 2B. “I want to get apprentices in in the short term and progress them up the ladder.”
