Capsticks has recruited five new paralegal apprentices in the third year since launching the programme. They are:

• Carla Masili, Housing and Regeneration, Winchester
• Rachel Xavier, Housing and Regeneration, Winchester
• Angelo Dela Crux, Housing and Regeneration, Winchester
• Saskia Wood, Employment, Leeds
• Sisay Shah, Employment, London

The legal apprenticeship runs for two years, combining on-the-job training with studies for the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives’ (CILEx) Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice. The apprentices receive their practical training at Capsticks, while CILEx provides the formal apprenticeship structure and learning materials.

With its varied learning format and accessibility, the programme offers an alternative route to law and greater diversity in law firms, opening up aspirations for students from a variety of backgrounds who might prefer practical elements to a solely academic career.

The scheme is a successful example of Capsticks’ dedication to developing employees and benefiting their careers long-term. Two apprentices who started in the original intake in 2019, Caira Baker and Mairead MacManus, moved from the paralegal to the solicitor apprenticeship last month, continuing their careers in law, while Luke Corbin and Faith Rose qualified as paralegals at Capsticks this year.

Rachael Heenan, Senior Partner, said: “When we celebrated our 40^th firm anniversary in 2019, we also wanted to look at the future of Capsticks and what legacy we can leave. Launching a brand new legal apprenticeship scheme allowed us to promote alternate routes to qualification and meaningful career development for those starting out in law. Now, three years later, we are immensely proud of what our first apprentices have achieved and can’t wait to work with our new starters.” 

Capsticks aims to be the firm of choice for organisations who work to make a difference, offering high-quality work, excellent career prospects and a healthy work-life balance in a supportive working environment. Everyone interested in becoming an apprentice at Capsticks can apply through the CILEx website from spring 2022.