Apprenticeships & Training Contracts
Start your legal career with us
We offer two clear routes into law: Apprenticeships and Training Contracts. Whether you’re looking to earn while you learn or take the next step after your degree, we’ll help you build the foundations for a lasting career. We believe in growing our talent from within, and we’re proud that many of our Partners started their journey right here.
Earn while you learn
Apprenticeships
If you’re looking for a way into law without the cost of university, our Apprenticeship Schemes could be the perfect fit. Based at our Leeds office, you’ll earn a salary, gain hands-on legal experience, and work towards becoming a qualified Lawyer.
From day one, you’ll be a valued part of the team. Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll rotate through a variety of teams, build practical legal skills in a top-rated law firm, and get paid as you learn. You’ll also have the support you need throughout. We pair you with experienced supervisors in each team, offer regular check-ins, and encourage plenty of informal learning.
What we're looking for
We offer three routes, each designed to support your career at a different stage:
- Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship: A two-year programme for school leavers with 96 UCAS points.
- Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship: A six-year pathway open to those with 128 UCAS points and no prior legal training.
- Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship: A 2.5-year scheme for degree holders, ideally with a PDGL.
Applications for all of our schemes will open towards the end of the year. The application deadline for our 2027 Level 7 Apprentice Scheme and Paralegal Apprentice Scheme is 31 March 2027, and the deadline for the Graduate Apprentice scheme is 31 January 2027.
If you would like to apply for one of our Apprenticeship Schemes, please send your CV and covering letter to Ruth King (Head of HR).
Train with us
Training contracts
Our two-year Training Contract gives you the chance to build experience across four six-month seats, working in a range of different teams. From day one, you’ll be a valued part of the team.
You’ll be trusted with real responsibility, given direct client contact, and supported every step of the way. You’ll work closely with a dedicated supervisor in each seat, benefit from regular reviews, and learn informally from the experienced people around you.
What we're looking for
We usually take on three Trainees each year, with contracts starting every 1 September. Most of our Trainees go on to qualify with us, and many stay for the long haul. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- A strong academic record: 340 UCAS points from your best three A-Levels (or equivalent), plus a solid 2:1 degree.
- A Commendation or above if you’ve completed the GDL or LPC.
- Strong attention to detail and high professional standards.
- The ability to prioritise, meet deadlines, and work well under pressure.
- Clear communication skills and a collaborative mindset
- Common sense, initiative, and a good sense of humour.
Blacks are currently recruiting for Training Contracts with start dates of September 2028 and September 2029. If you would like to apply for a Training Contract, please send your CV together with a covering letter to Ruth King (Head of HR).
Questions we’re often asked
Our open-plan office and down-to-earth culture make it easy to ask questions and get stuck in.
We know balancing work, study and life outside of both can be a challenge. That’s why we work closely with BPP to make sure you’ve got the time and support you need. One of our current Apprentices put it best:
We try to match your seat preferences with the needs of the business, and we’ll always take your interests and career goals into account. You’ll have the chance to discuss your options with our team before each rotation.
We’re looking for people who are curious, proactive and keen to learn. You don’t need to know everything about law, that’s what we’re here for, but we want to see enthusiasm, a willingness to get stuck in, and a genuine interest in a career in law.
Not necessarily. We welcome applications from both law and non-law graduates. If your degree isn’t in law, you’ll need to complete a conversion course before starting your training contract.
We’re friendly, down to earth, and proud of our culture. You won’t be thrown in the deep end or left to figure things out alone. We’ll support you every step of the way with real work, real responsibility, and real people who care about your progress.