North East law firm launch innovative legal apprenticeships

The North East’s Gordon Brown Law Firm has launched a legal apprenticeship programme, offering an alternative post-A Level route to a legal career.

The scheme, created by Damar Training, combines a paid job with specific training, assessment and study for two staff aged 18-23.

At the end of their placement the apprentices will have acquired a nationally recognised legal qualification, awarded by the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX).

Deb Tweedy, HR manager at Gordon Brown Law Firm, said: “Apprenticeships are generally only available to support younger people and those without qualifications higher than A Level – however the Damar Legal Programme is open to all ages and credentials, and actually allows the apprentices to follow a career path which will afford them with the relevant skills and experience that are closely linked to the industry and the needs of the client.

“We are also delighted to advise that a further two employees, one from the Residential conveyancing arm of the business and the other from the HR team will have the opportunity to go on to complete a paralegal course in Residential Conveyancing and Employment law respectively following completion of an NVQ2 in Business Administration.”

Sophie Gray, apprentice HR administrator said: “It’s a tough time for anyone looking for employment so to have the opportunity to work with one of the region’s most highly regarded legal firms and learn from the best, whilst furthering my studies towards a career in the legal profession, is a dream come true. I can’t wait to get started.”

Jonathan Bourne, from Damar Training, said: “A legal apprenticeship with Damar means real, paid work, combined with training that leads to nationally recognised qualifications and a debt-free route to a career in the law.

“We’re very excited to work with the Gordon Brown team, who have really embraced our programme and are offering three young people a unique opportunity to train in a way that’s both rewarding and interesting, ultimately achieving their full potential.”

Deb concluded: “The Gordon Brown law firm team come from a variety of backgrounds and understand the importance of hard work and dedication. Our apprentices will gain invaluable experience through training and assessment and build for the future from day one.

“North East unemployment figures are still a big challenge and we should not underestimate the youth employment situation. Here at Gordon Brown Law Firm we plan to work with local schools and colleges to support the regional economy and encourage a generation of youngsters to aim for a career in law.”