For aspiring solicitors, the idea of balancing full-time legal work with SQE study can feel overwhelming. But for Alyssia Sableski, a Graduate Apprentice in Law at DPP Law, finding that balance has been not only possible, but rewarding.
In a recent Q&A, Alyssia shared how the structure of the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship has helped her manage her time, maintain her confidence, and build a steady routine that supports both her professional and academic goals.
A Structured Routine That Works
Unlike many routes to qualification, the solicitor apprenticeship structure includes dedicated study time. This feature makes a huge difference for those working in busy legal environments.
“I found balancing the apprenticeship and work fairly easy… my work does give me three days off to do my workshops.”
Built-in study time helps Alyssia step away from daily responsibilities and focus on her learning. With three days per month set aside for structured workshops, she can engage with the material and consistently prepare for the SQE with support.
Making the Most of Weekends
Outside of scheduled workshops, Alyssia uses her weekends for preparation and review. Her methodical approach keeps her ahead of deadlines and improves retention.
“I go home on a Friday and I will prep all of the weekend for my workshops and do my readings and then I’m fully engaged in it, taking my notes, so my notes are ready and can go over my revision for the next time we come across it.”
Her rhythm of preparation, engagement, and review shows how graduate apprentices can build sustainable routines, even while working full time.
Reducing Overwhelm Through Structure
Many aspiring solicitors juggle work and self-study with little guidance. Alyssia, however, benefits from a structured apprenticeship that removes much of that stress.
“I have friends who are doing the SQE as well and they’re just not getting as much support, so they’re drowning under all of the work, the readings and exam questions, but they’re not having the helping hands to guide them through it.”
This contrast highlights a major advantage of the apprenticeship route. With strong support, the journey becomes less overwhelming and far more manageable.
One-to-One Coaching Makes a Difference
Another factor helping Alyssia stay on track is her one-to-one coach. Regular meetings align her academic goals with her workload and provide meaningful feedback to support progress.
“With having my one-to-one coach, it really helps keep me on track, so my coach Paige sets me deadlines of what we want to have done by our next meeting each month.”
These check-ins give apprentices the structure they need to manage their responsibilities confidently.
Building Confidence Before Exams
For Alyssia, success means more than passing the SQE. She wants to feel prepared and confident when she takes the exams. The apprenticeship gives her the tools, time, and resources to make that happen.
“I won’t be doing the SQE unless I’m fully prepared to do it. There are opportunities for me to do it earlier if I feel like I can. Even so, I’d rather be given my mock tests and see what I’m achieving to go and complete the SQE and hopefully pass the first time…”
This thoughtful strategy, supported by a clear framework, helps Alyssia balance real-world experience with academic preparation.
Staying Motivated While Balancing Both Worlds
Despite the demands of working and studying, Alyssia maintains a positive outlook. She credits this to the thoughtful structure of the apprenticeship.
“I’m good, I’m in a really comfortable position.”
Her confidence results from consistent support and organisation, not luck. The apprenticeship provides the tools to succeed steadily, rather than relying on last-minute exam cramming.
Practical Advice for Future Apprentices
Alyssia’s story shows how apprenticeships support both personal and professional growth. Her advice to others is simple and direct:
“Advice about the solicitor apprenticeship route is to just be prepared and be willing to ask your firm for time to complete it.”
Why Graduate Law Apprenticeships Work
Alyssia’s experience proves that law apprenticeships offer more than a qualification. They foster capable, confident legal professionals through a balanced and supportive path. With dedicated study time, expert coaching, and a consistent structure, Datalaw’s Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship helps apprentices manage both work and learning successfully.
If you’re exploring a career in law but worried about balancing full-time work and study, a law apprenticeship might be the right choice. It’s practical, flexible, personal, and designed for real-world success. To take the next step, you can register your interest in the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship today and start shaping a career that works for you.
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