Apprenticeship
Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme
Slaughter and May£32,000
London
Expected closing date: Wednesday, 6 January 2027
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TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- Earn £32,000 in your first year, with annual increases and a £3,000 sign-on bonus.
- Undertake a 6-year Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme, studying towards a law degree and SQE assessments with BPP University.
- Applications for the 2027 programme are open from 12 October 2026 and close on 6 January 2027.
- Requires 7 GCSEs at grade 6+ (including Maths and English) and AAB at A-level (or predicted).
- Must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme.
About the Role
This six-year Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme is designed for bright and motivated school leavers interested in a career in commercial law. You will gain exposure to the full range of work undertaken by the practice groups, developing broad experience alongside deep legal expertise. This will equip you with the commercial judgement, intellectual ability and independence of thought needed to deliver complex and landmark work.
What You'll Do
- Years 1-4: Rotate annually through practice areas such as Corporate and M&A, Financing, Competition, Disputes and Investigations, Financial Regulation, Pensions, Employment and Incentives, Real Estate and Projects, Technology, Digital, Data and IP, Tax and Sustainability.
- Later Years: Join trainee rotations, moving to a new practice area every three to six months.
- Study: Attend BPP University one day per week towards your law degree and SQE assessments.
- Secondments: UK and international secondment opportunities may be available in the latter stages.
- Early Experience: Sit with knowledge lawyers in each practice area for the first two years, then with fee-earning lawyers from your third year onwards.
Training and Support
- Learning and Development: A comprehensive programme covering legal knowledge, commercial awareness, skills, and professional behaviours.
- Induction: Apprentice Induction prior to joining, and a focused induction programme upon starting.
- Study Support: Dedicated study time one day per week with BPP University, including in-person workshops, online self-study, and experienced tutors.
- Legal and Professional Skills Training: Sessions delivered by partners, senior lawyers, and the Learning and Development team.
- Coaching: Bespoke coaching sessions throughout the programme.
- Development Support: Regular progress reviews, informal feedback from supervisors, and meetings with a Continuity Partner.
- Mentorship: A dedicated buddy will act as an informal mentor.
- HR Support: A dedicated HR Adviser and a BPP Skills Coach.
- Networking: Access to employee networks, clubs, social activities, and opportunities to connect with fellow apprentices.
Salary and Benefits
- Starting Salary: £32,000 in the first year, increasing annually.
- Sign-on Bonus: £3,000.
- Loan: Optional interest-free loan of up to £3,000.
- Study Fees: All study fees will be paid.
- Benefits Package: Includes 30 days’ holiday per year, private medical insurance, pension scheme, onsite GP services, and various wellness benefits.
How to Apply
- Application Window: Applications open on Monday 12 October 2026 and close on Wednesday 6 January 2027.
- Process: Complete the online application form and attach your CV.
- Situational Judgement Test: Must be completed within 2 days of submitting your application.
Key Dates
- Application Open: Monday 12 October 2026
- Application Close: Wednesday 6 January 2027
- Interviews: 8 March - 2 April 2027
- Start Date: September 2027
- Programme Length: 6 years