Apprenticeship success for Crime colleague

As part of National Apprenticeship Week (6-12th February 2023), our colleague, Connie Hughes shares her route into law through joining us as an apprentice.

Tell us about your apprenticeship and how it worked for you?

I joined Fosters in June 2021 as an apprentice. I was enrolled on the Business Administration Level 3 course in September 2021. This course consisted of a four-day working week with one day being study leave. This worked well to allow me to focus on both my role within the team and my studies at college. I studied at City College Norwich and had five workshops to complete, which were held both online and on site. These workshops covered criteria in the upcoming exams and general skills to help me develop further within my role. I thoroughly enjoyed the social aspect of my course and making friends with those who also chose the apprenticeship route.

How do you feel an apprenticeship has benefitted you?

My apprenticeship at Fosters has benefitted me in many ways, such as being able to learn and develop my skills and earn money at the same time. This is a great way to get a foot in the door in a career path you are interested in, as well as gaining hands on experience. This was the perfect option for me as I knew university was not the route I wanted to go down, but I was still eager to develop my knowledge and gain experience in the law field. Above all you gain an industry-recognised qualification. The support I had throughout the duration of my apprenticeship has been amazing.

After completing my examinations in December 2022, I was offered the position of legal assistant within the Crime & Business Defence department.

What attracted you to a career in law?

I was initially attracted to a career in law due to my dad being involved in this area of work. I always wanted to gain further insight into the procedures and I was intrigued to learn more. After completing my GCSEs at Acle Academy, I went to Paston College to study A Levels in law and medical science. Studying A Level Law made me realise I would love to work in this field. After college, I was eager to explore my interest in law further and I was fortunate enough to secure a position in the Crime & Business Defence department at Fosters.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship?

The advice I would give for those considering an apprenticeship is if you are like me and know that university is not the route you want to take but still want to further your knowledge and skills in a particular career and get paid whilst you learn, apprenticeships are the perfect path to take. You gain hands on experience as well as continuous support throughout. I was fortunate to be offered a permanent position after my apprenticeship, working as a legal assistant within the team.