Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme

Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme

The six‑year Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme is designed for bright and motivated school leavers interested in a career in commercial law. It offers breadth of experience and training needed to become a multi‑specialist lawyer, equipped to advise on a broad range of legal matters.

During the first four years as a solicitor apprentice, you will rotate annually through a range of practice areas, gaining knowledge and experience while studying at BPP University one day per week towards an undergraduate law degree. Towards the latter part of the programme, you will join trainee rotations, moving to a new practice area every 3‑6 months. You will also continue to attend BPP University to study for your degree and then the SQE, and both UK and international secondment opportunities may be available in the latter stages of the programme.

In each seat, you will be supervised by an experienced lawyer who will work with you and BPP to set goals and provide exposure to a range of tasks, work, and areas of law. You will be actively involved in the work your supervisor and group are handling. Responsibilities and tasks will vary, but you will be an important part of the team straight away, working on exciting and often ground‑breaking transactions.

Who can apply?

The programme is for applicants who have not yet completed an undergraduate degree. You must have achieved 7 GCSEs at grade 6 or above (including Maths and English) and have achieved or be predicted to achieve AAB at A level. Extenuating circumstances will be taken into account.

We welcome applications irrespective of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, belief or marital status.

How to Apply

Applications are now open and will close on Wednesday 7 January 2026. To apply, complete the online application and attach your CV. You will also be asked to complete a situational judgement test within two days of submitting your application.

About Slaughter & May

Slaughter & May is a leading international law firm recognised for its exceptional legal service and commitment to clients. The firm is a trusted adviser to some of the largest companies in the world, advising on high‑profile, complex, and often ground‑breaking transactions. Our forward‑thinking, innovative approach to legal services complements the best‑in‑class advice on which our reputation is built.

Our Practice Areas

We are a full‑service law firm and have leading practitioners across a wide range of areas, including Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate and Commercial, Financing, Tax, Competition, Disputes and Investigations, Real Estate and Projects, Pensions and Employment, Financial Regulation, and Technology, Digital, Data and Intellectual Property.

A World Of Difference

• Each lawyer is trained to be a multi‑specialist, equipped to advise on a broad range of legal matters that in other firms would be handled by a number of different lawyers.
• Much of our work has an international element, and we work with the very best law firms across the globe, supporting our clients with more than 200 law firms across 100 countries annually.
• Our inclusive culture is built on intentional collaboration and support, with no set billing targets, allowing lawyers to focus on delivering exceptional work and outstanding client service.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion is an integral part of how we do things as a firm. We believe a supportive and inclusive workplace drives collaboration and enhances business performance. We focus on examining and adjusting the system for greater acceptance of different leadership styles and ways of working.