A new route into the legal profession was launched this week by the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) and Skills for Justice.

The CILEx Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Legal Services, which was officially launched on 30 September is set and assessed at A-Level standard and is suitable for school leavers, career changers as well as those already in a paralegal role.

Any student who completes their apprenticeship will gain exemptions from part of CILEx’s professional qualifications.

CILEx President and apprenticeship ambassador, Stephen Gowland said of the scheme:

“This course will provide individuals and employers with an additional approach to a legal career and one which complements CILEx’s already strong vocational legal qualifications. As so many of our paralegal members have done before them, apprentices will be able to progress to qualification as a Chartered Legal Executive lawyer.”

CILEx offers the Level 3 Advanced and Level 4 Higher Apprenticeships in Legal Services. With 100% funding from the government in certain cases, apprentices can expect to earn a salary which meets National Minimum Wage requirements as well as gaining valuable on-the-job training.

Further information can be found on the CILEx web site at www.cilex.org.uk/study/legal_apprentices.aspx