We’ve recently welcomed new admin assistant Lydia to our team, as part of our apprenticeship scheme giving young people valuable opportunities to take a step onto the career ladder.
And she says that, so far, she’s absolutely loving life at James Legal!
“It’s such a nice place to work,” Lydia said. “It feels like one big family, everyone is so helpful and supportive, and the work is really interesting.”
Lydia is Hull born and bred, and completed her education at the Sirius Academy in west Hull before embarking on a criminology degree at the city’s prestigious university in 2018. She explained: “I originally thought I’d like to work with prisoners, or in the probation system, but then changed my mind during my course. I enjoyed studying criminal psychology and learning about the justice system, but to be honest didn’t really expect to be joining a firm of solicitors when I graduated as I didn’t have a law degree.”
Her enthusiasm, positive attitude, interpersonal skills and qualifications meant Lydia’s application for our one-year apprenticeship as an administration assistant was successful, and she joined us in January 2021.
A great opportunity to learn
So far, it’s proved a rewarding choice for the hard-working 22-year-old, who had gained plenty of real-world work experience in the retail sector while undertaking her degree.
“I find the work at James Legal fascinating,” she said. “A role like this is a great way to learn about the business and all the different areas of law. I get to help out on lots of cases, covering areas like employment, property and family law, which I think is particularly interesting.
“And everyone is really supportive, I can ask questions without feeling like a nuisance. It’s a great environment for learning the ropes from a brilliant team of people, and I’m hoping to be able study for some more qualifications in the future and pursue a career in law.”
Meeting and greeting
As client contact has been limited, and conducted mainly online, during the coronavirus lockdown, Lydia is also looking forward to a return to ‘business as usual’, when she’ll get to meet and greet visitors to the company’s Hull offices. “Getting to know clients is an important part of my job, so it will be nice to see them in person,” she added.
When she’s not busy working at James Legal (and not staying at home or going for walks during lockdown!), Lydia loves nothing more than to dine out at local eateries, and spend time socialising with her friends.
If you have any queries about James Legal apprenticeship opportunities, please contact Hull Business Training Centre or contact us via info@jameslegal.co.uk or (01482) 225566.
