Carpenters Group Share Alternative Pathways Into Legal Careers
21 August 2025
As thousands of young people across the UK receive their A-Level and GCSE results, many are asking the same question: What next?
For generations, a career in law was seen as a linear path: A-Levels, university, postgraduate qualifications, and then years of training. But at Carpenters Group, we’re proving that there are alternative routes that allow talented people to qualify while they work, without the financial and academic barriers of traditional study routes.
A Culture of Opportunity
Carpenters launched its Legal Academy to give colleagues structured training, mentoring and qualifications as they build their careers.
Chief Executive Donna Richards explained:
“We believe that investing in the future of our people is investing in the future of our business. Our commitment to providing the best levels of service to our clients means we need people who share our passion and dedication for excellent client care.”
Voices From the Academy
For many of those taking part, the Carpenters Group Legal Academy has been transformational.
Jake Smith joined Carpenters in
“As a child life was tough and I had very little hope of having a career. As a teenager, with the help of the Prince’s Trust I went to university to study my Law degree. Although, following graduation the cost of the Legal Practice Course was beyond my reach and that paused my career goals. Today, I am a Senior Legal Advisor and sitting the SQE apprenticeship because of support from Carpenters. I have passed my SQE 1 exams and am now in full focus for my final exams.
For me, the SQE apprenticeship opens up real opportunities for progression and removes the financial barriers people may face. You can earn while you learn, gain experience, and qualify without the financial strain.”
For Beth McMahon Bell, apprenticeships offered a clear path straight after sixth form:
Carpenters Group apprentices on her first day in 2022
“I started at Carpenters straight after my A-Levels and I have been here for three years. I currently work in the Serious Injury Team, assisting on Chronic Pain cases.
"Since joining I have qualified as a Paralegal through the apprenticeship route and I start my Solicitor Apprenticeship in September.
"Carpenters have been extremely supportive throughout my studies, and I am grateful I am able to progress my career.”
Ciara Daniels joined Carpenters straight after her A-Levels:
“I was very unsure if I wanted to attend university due to the fact that I would accumulate student debt, so I was ecstatic to be offered an apprenticeship.
"Completing an apprenticeship with Carpenters Group has allowed me to obtain qualifications while also gaining invaluable experience in the legal industry."
"With the support from Carpenters, I have now completed my Paralegal apprenticeship, and I will be progressing onto the Solicitor Apprenticeship.
"I will soon be running some cases of my own – an opportunity I would never have had following my A-Levels without Carpenters Group.”
There is More Than One Way Forward
These stories show that success isn’t linear. At Carpenters, we believe in potential, not perfection. We know that university isn’t the only answer, and for some, it isn’t possible at all. By offering structured apprenticeships and legal training, we are helping people from all backgrounds find their way into the profession.
As Head of Fast Track RTA, Jo Haslam, said:
“As a member of the Legal Academy, colleagues are trained in how to manage a caseload of Fast Track Portal cases through all stages, including litigation, where appropriate. Our permanent managers and trainers ensure new starters are fully supported as they build their competence and confidence. It is incredibly rewarding to witness people succeed in a way they perhaps had never thought possible.”
A Message for Results Days
Results days are important milestones, but they do not define the future. At Carpenters Group, we want students and parents to know that there are multiple routes into successful and rewarding law and insurance careers and that apprenticeships are opening doors like never before.
Whether you are receiving GCSEs or A-Levels this summer, or considering a career change later in life, there are opportunities waiting.
Explore current vacancies or contact the Talent team at Talent@carpentersgroup.co.uk
Remember, your career in law doesn't begin or end with a single results day.
