The journey to becoming a solicitor is no longer confined to traditional lecture halls and long academic pathways. Law apprenticeships are transforming legal education by providing a more hands-on, accessible, and skill-focused route to qualification.
For aspiring solicitors like Rio Kellman, a Graduate Solicitor Apprentice at Datalaw, this approach has delivered much more than a pathway to passing the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE), it has equipped her with the practical skills, confidence, and clarity needed to grow into a well-rounded legal professional.
In her video testimonial, Rio offers a real-world perspective on how the apprenticeship route is helping her develop in ways that purely academic routes often miss, and how it’s shaping her vision for the future.
From Studying to Practicing: Learning Skills That Matter
One of the greatest advantages of law apprenticeships is the ability to learn by doing. Rather than studying legal theory in isolation, apprentices like Rio apply knowledge directly to client work, case preparation, and real-life legal processes.
“The practical experience is perfect for gaining transferable skills,” she explains. “It inevitably helps you with the SQE.”
Rio works in criminal defence and has been exposed to a wide range of legal tasks. These include interviewing clients, reviewing evidence, preparing documents, and observing advocacy in action. These are not simulated tasks—they’re part of her everyday responsibilities. This hands-on role helps her sharpen skills that directly impact both her exam performance and practical legal ability.
Developing Core Legal Skills
Throughout her apprenticeship, Rio has strengthened several key skills essential for any solicitor. These include:
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Advocacy: Communicating persuasively and confidently, both in writing and speech.
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Legal Strategy: Approaching cases with logic, care, and a focus on the client’s best interest.
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Time Management: Balancing work duties, study, and SQE preparation while meeting deadlines.
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Communication: Interacting professionally with clients, colleagues, and the courts.
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Adaptability: Moving between academic content and real-world legal practice with confidence.
“You do have to know a little bit about each area,” Rio notes. “Because of the apprenticeship, I’ve got a much more in-depth knowledge now.”
This kind of broad exposure prepares apprentices to handle various legal challenges. As a result, they build a strong foundation for their future careers.
Seeing the Law in Action
One of Rio’s most valuable takeaways is seeing the difference between theory and practice. She points out how a bail application in a textbook differs from the real process.
“A bail application in real life would probably start as just an email,” she says, “but theoretically in a textbook, it would start with drafting an application and discussing it with the court.”
This real-world experience allows apprentices to internalise legal procedures more effectively than theory alone. As they participate in actual cases, they learn to think and act like solicitors. Consequently, they gain a clearer understanding of what the profession truly demands.
Looking Ahead: Career Progression and Qualification
Rio is fully committed to the apprenticeship route and has already mapped out her next steps. She plans to sit SQE1 in January 2026 and SQE2 in October 2026. Meanwhile, she is completing her qualifying work experience (QWE) as part of her role.
“I’m manifesting that I’m going to pass first time,” she says optimistically, and with good reason.
Thanks to the support from her progress coach, supervising solicitor, and Datalaw’s preparation resources, Rio feels confident about qualifying. Her next goal is to earn police station accreditation. After that, she plans to become a duty solicitor—representing clients in police stations and magistrates’ courts.
Your Next Step Starts with Datalaw
If you want real legal experience while working toward solicitor qualification, Datalaw’s apprenticeship programmes offer the perfect route. These programmes are flexible, well-supported, and built with your future in mind.
From the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship to Paralegal and Conveyancing Apprenticeships, Datalaw provides expert-led SQE preparation, structured mentoring, and one-to-one support. You’ll gain practical experience while studying, allowing you to live the role of a legal professional from day one.
If this pathway interests you, register your interest today and explore how an apprenticeship could shape your legal career.
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