Gower College Swansea welcomed employers from across the legal sector to Legal Lattes: Wales West, a breakfast event showcasing the benefits of apprenticeship pathways in legal services for professional development.
Held at the Plas Hyfryd Hotel in Narberth, the event brought together subject experts and legal employers to explore the fully funded CILEX Legal Services apprenticeship programmes available at the College, alongside information on AAT Accountancy apprenticeships.
The event provided employers with a valuable opportunity to explore how the apprenticeships can support workforce development, strengthen succession planning and create a sustainable pipeline of future talent within the professional services sector.
Attendees gained detailed insights into the programmes, which equip learners with the skills, knowledge and professional expertise required to work towards careers as paralegals and legal assistants. Employers also learned how the programmes can complement existing training strategies while helping organisations attract, develop and retain emerging talent.
A highlight of the morning was hearing directly from a current Level 3 Legal Services apprentice, who shared her personal experience of the programme, her day-to-day responsibilities in the workplace and her future career aspirations. Her contribution provided employers with a real-world perspective on the value and impact of apprenticeships within the legal profession.
Darren Fountain, Learning Area Manager for Business and Technology at Gower College Swansea, said:
“The event was an excellent opportunity to present this alternative apprenticeship pathway into law to employers, offering a clear overview of the curriculum in practice. It was particularly impactful to hear directly from a current apprentice, whose insights into her journey and aspirations brought the pathway to life and demonstrated its real value.”
Alongside the Legal Services pathway, employers also received an overview of the College’s AAT Accountancy apprenticeship provision. These programmes offer progression opportunities from entry-level qualifications covering double-entry bookkeeping and basic costing through to advanced programmes that explore specialist areas including tax, auditing, credit and debit management, cash management and financial management.
Employers also learned about the support available, including guidance on recruitment, apprenticeship funding, workforce planning and ongoing learner support.
The Legal Lattes: West Wales event formed part of the College’s commitment to working closely with employers to address skills needs and develop future professionals across the region.
For more information on the apprenticeship pathways or to discuss the employer support available, contact training@gcs.ac.uk or 01792 284400.