The legal apprentice taking the CILEX route
Victoria Holmes is a legal apprentice at JCP Solicitors who opted for a work-based learning approach rather than a traditional university pathway.
She is currently undertaking a level five CILEX professional qualification as part of her apprenticeship, which is delivered at University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s Swansea Bay campus.
We asked Victoria about her apprenticeship experience.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in law and why does it appeal to you as a profession?
My interest in law was originally sparked by watching TV programmes focused on criminal law - I always found that area fascinating.
As I got older, I came to appreciate the full scope of different legal areas. Law appeals to me as a profession because I find the subject genuinely interesting, and I have a real passion for problem-solving.
Why did you choose the apprenticeship route and how did you secure your current apprenticeship position?
I chose the apprenticeship route as I didn’t feel that the traditional university route would have suited me. I was already working in JCP Solicitors when the CILEX apprenticeship scheme started and it was something that I was keen to do as I wanted to progress in law.
How has your apprenticeship experience been so far?
The apprenticeship has been a very positive experience and I’ve really enjoyed exploring different areas of law and expanding my knowledge.
The exams have been challenging, but passing them has given me a real sense of fulfilment. The most valuable lessons I’ve learned are: first, the importance of putting in the work to achieve the results I want, and second, to have faith in myself that I can pass and progress in my career.
What JCP Solicitors say about apprenticeships
Offering an apprenticeship has brought significant benefits to JCP. It has allowed us to invest in developing future talent, ensuring that our firm continues to grow with individuals who are trained in our core values, processes, and standards from day one. Apprenticeships have enhanced our team’s capacity, brought fresh perspectives, and fostered a culture of learning and mentorship across departments.
Victoria has made a noticeable impact within our residential property team. From managing initial client correspondence to assisting with drafting documentation and coordinating searches, Victoria is a reliable and valued member of the team. Her proactive attitude and willingness to learn have helped ease caseload pressures during peak periods, while also improving the team’s overall workflow. Additionally, her growth and development has inspired the next generation of Legal Apprentices coming into the team.
More information about Apprenticeships in Legal Services
The level three and level five courses are delivered at University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s Swansea Bay campus.
The apprenticeship framework is delivered by Coleg Sir Gâr where each apprentice is allocated a training advisor as a mentor to offer support, guidance and progression.
Both programmes are part-time and fully funded by Welsh Government.
Learners will undertake the CILEX professional qualification as part of the apprenticeship.
Contact Lydia.david@colegsirgar.ac.uk for further details.