National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2025 is a week-long celebration (10-16 February) designed to showcase the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the wider economy.

This year’s theme, Skills for Life , highlights how apprenticeships provide individuals with rewarding career opportunities while helping businesses develop a future-ready workforce.

At Switalskis, we’re proud to participate in this inspiring initiative by celebrating our apprentices and the invaluable contributions they bring to our firm. We've supported individuals through Paralegal and Business Administration apprenticeships and currently have seven Solicitor Apprentices following the six-year non-graduate route.

As part of our Qualifying Solicitors Programme, in addition to the traditional 2-year training contract, we also offer a 32-month Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship programme, which is designed to develop talent and provide an alternative pathway to qualifying as a solicitor.

Why apprenticeships matter

Apprenticeships provide a unique combination of practical, hands-on experience and structured learning, equipping individuals with the confidence, skills, and knowledge they need to thrive in their careers. For businesses like Switalskis, they’re a chance to shape the next generation of professionals while staying ahead in a competitive industry.

NAW 2025 encourages us all to reflect on how these programmes create long-term value for both individuals and employers. Apprenticeships inspire career progression, build self-confidence, and foster innovation—benefits we see every day at Switalskis.

Gerardine Labonté-Hazlewood, Graduate Solicitor Apprentice, commented: “Joining the Graduate Solicitors Apprenticeship in its first cycle at Switalskis has been incredibly rewarding. Balancing SQE studies with a full workload has been challenging, but the team has been very supportive in helping me meet all my training requirements.

"After two years as a paralegal, I chose to train here because of the firm’s commitment to developing junior staff, the diverse seat-rotation opportunities, and their balanced focus on internal growth and external business development. I highly recommend Switalskis for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in their legal career.”

Apprenticeships at Switalskis

Our Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship offers the opportunity to:

• Gain broad experience: Work in multiple departments within the firm, gaining valuable insights into diverse areas of law. From family law to medical negligence, apprentices can explore their interests while building a strong foundation of knowledge.
• Earn while you learn: Our apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with academic studies, enabling participants to gain practical experience and formal qualifications simultaneously.
• Develop future-ready skills: Apprenticeships foster a range of competencies, from critical thinking and problem-solving to client relationship management—skills that are essential for a successful legal career.

Julie Guest, Head of People at Switalskis, commented: “The success of our apprenticeship programme is best illustrated through the achievements of our apprentices. It’s wonderful to see them grow into confident, capable professionals who make meaningful contributions to the firm and the wider legal community. Their journeys are a testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships and the diverse opportunities they offer.

“At Switalskis, we’re committed to fostering talent and supporting individuals on their journey to a fulfilling career in law. Together, let’s celebrate the skills, dedication, and potential of apprentices across the nation.”