At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Flex Trainee programme to gain hands-on legal experience while qualifying as a solicitor.
- Company: Flex Legal champions diversity and social mobility in the legal profession, supporting aspiring solicitors.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work options, professional development, and personal perks like private healthcare and nursery benefits.
- Why this job: This role offers unique in-house training opportunities and a chance to build your legal network.
- Qualifications: Must have a UK Qualifying Law Degree and meet specific criteria for either Flex Trainee or Apprentice routes.
- Other info: Applications close on 27th April 2025; we support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.
A new way to qualify. The Solicitors Qualification Examination (SQE) route to qualify as a solicitor is designed to open the legal profession to a wider pool of talent. It represents a significant opportunity for organisations to support the next generation of lawyers, and improve social mobility and diversity in the profession. Our Flex Trainee programme helps socially mobile and diverse aspiring solicitors to make the most of this opportunity. We place our trainees in legal teams over the two years of their SQE, where they gather valuable qualifying work experience while completing the academic component of their qualification.
Flex works with the UK’s most forward-looking legal teams to make sure trainees are exposed to a wide range of work. Our trainees have been placed in renowned companies, including international banks and other financial services organisations, leading manufacturers and retailers, technology and telecoms companies, as well as charities. Trainees are employed by Flex Legal for two years and seconded to a client's in-house legal team where they will be exposed to a wide range of legal experiences. Trainees either complete their placement with one organisation for the two years or will be placed across two organisations for a year each. At the end of the two years, and subject to passing the SQE assessments and gaining the necessary QWE, candidates will be able to apply to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to become a fully qualified solicitor.
As part of the Flex Trainee programme, we offer two distinct pathways to qualification: Flex Apprentice and Flex Trainee. Your route will depend on your current qualifications and where you are in your legal journey. You will be asked questions during your application that will help us determine which route is more suitable for you.
With Flex, you will get exposure to a range of experiences in in-house legal teams across a variety of industries. Wherever you go during the programme, your home-base will always be Flex, who will make sure that you're well taken care of.
- Flex Apprentice: The SQE1 & 2 preparation course plus your SQE exams. You will also complete a Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship via Damar.
- Flex Trainee: The SQE 2 preparation course plus your SQE exams.
An in-house supervisor, who will meet with Flex every month to review your progress. Regular 1:1s with a Flex development mentor in Y1 and a legal industry mentor in Y2. Professional development opportunities with Flex through professional and industry networking events. Access to the Flex Legal SQE Journal, which is Flex’s proprietary tool to easily record Qualifying Work Experience. Time off during term time to study for the SQE. A range of personal benefits, including a cycle to work scheme, nursery benefits and private health care (upon successful passing of probation).
To apply for the Autumn 2025 Flex Trainee programme, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Social Mobility Eligibility: The Flex Trainee programme is designed to support socially mobile and diverse aspiring solicitors. As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details about your background, particularly your education and social circumstances.
- Law-Related Qualifications: You must have completed a UK Qualifying Law Degree from any university. 1 or above (or an equivalent grade) in at least one degree or postgraduate qualification. If mitigating circumstances prevented you from meeting this requirement, you should still apply and explain your situation in your application, as we will take this into account.
- Meet criteria for either the Flex Trainee or Flex Apprentice route: Flex Apprentice: You must not be enrolled in or have completed the SQE1 or the LPC. Flex Trainee: You must have passed either the SQE or LPC but must not be enrolled in the SQE2. You will also ideally have 6 months legal experience.
If you are currently studying for or awaiting results from these qualifications, contact us to discuss your eligibility (trainee@f-lex.co.uk).
Legal Traineeship employer: Flex Legal
Contact Detail:
Flex Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Traineeship
✨Tip Number 1
Research the Flex Trainee programme thoroughly. Understand its structure, benefits, and the types of legal experiences you will gain. This knowledge will help you articulate why you're a great fit during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former trainees from the Flex programme. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and what to expect, which can help you stand out in your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your aspirations and motivations for wanting to qualify as a solicitor in an in-house setting. Be ready to explain how your background aligns with the values of social mobility and diversity that Flex champions.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current legal trends and issues, especially those affecting in-house legal teams. Demonstrating commercial awareness will show your commitment and understanding of the role you’re applying for.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Traineeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Programme: Familiarise yourself with the Flex Trainee programme and its unique offerings. Highlight your understanding of how this opportunity aligns with your career aspirations in your application.
Showcase Your Background: Since the programme focuses on social mobility and diversity, be sure to detail your background, education, and any challenges you've overcome. This will help demonstrate your fit for the programme.
Express Your Motivation: Clearly articulate why you want to qualify as a solicitor and why you are interested in the in-house legal setting. Use specific examples to illustrate your passion for law and your career goals.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Flex Trainee role. Emphasise any legal experience you have, particularly in an in-house context, and ensure your documents are free from errors.
How to prepare for a job interview at Flex Legal
✨Understand the Flex Trainee Programme
Make sure you have a solid grasp of what the Flex Trainee programme entails. Familiarise yourself with the structure, benefits, and opportunities it offers, especially regarding social mobility and diversity in the legal profession.
✨Show Your Passion for Law
During the interview, express your genuine interest in qualifying as a solicitor and why you want to pursue a career in an in-house legal setting. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to the legal field.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Be prepared to discuss current trends in the legal industry and how they impact businesses. Understanding the commercial aspects of law will show that you are not only focused on legal knowledge but also on how it applies in real-world scenarios.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Have thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers about the programme, the companies you might work with, and the support you'll receive. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the programme aligns with your career goals.