BHP Law is proud to announce the appointment of its eighth Solicitor Apprentice, Isabelle Watson, who has joined the firm as part of the North East Solicitor Apprenticeship (NESA) Programme in partnership with Northumbria University.

The Solicitor Apprenticeship scheme offers a dynamic alternative to the traditional university route, allowing students to gain hands-on legal experience while studying towards a law degree. Apprentices work four days a week within the firm, rotating across departments to build practical skills, and attend university one day a week for academic study.

Over the course of the six-year programme, apprentices complete a series of exams and written assessments, culminating in the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE) and full qualification as a solicitor.

BHP Law’s current cohort includes:

• Ellie Phillips and Jack Collins – 6th year
• Megan Austin, Ben Armstrong, and Lucy Burgess – 4th year
• Maya Yakoob and Esmee Keeper Redshaw – 2nd year
• Isabella Watson – 1st year and the newest addition to the team

The application process for the apprenticeship is rigorous, involving open days, written applications, interviews, group activities, and work experience placements with participating firms. This allows both the firms and the individuals to get to know one another, ensuring a strong mutual fit and a supportive learning environment from the outset.

Lisa Cairns, Head of People Services at BHP Law, commented: “The Solicitor Apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic alternative to the traditional university route. It allows aspiring solicitors to gain invaluable experience in a real-world legal environment while working towards their qualification.”

Newest recruit, Isabella Watson said: “I’m thrilled to have started with BHP Law. The application process allowed me to get a real feel for the firm, and I genuinely feel I’ll be in safe hands. I’m excited about what’s to come and look forward to exploring all the teams.”

Fourth-year apprentice Lucy Burgess shared: “I love the fact that I’ll qualify with zero student debt. I’m also gaining valuable work experience that I wouldn’t have had if I’d taken the traditional university route.”

Sixth-year apprentice Ellie Phillips, who recently passed SQE1, added: “The SQE is a new and challenging process. Having sat SQE1 and achieved results in the first quintile for both elements (FLK1 and FLK2) I’m immensely grateful for the support at BHP Law which made the process feel easier to navigate. I’m now looking ahead to SQE2 which will form the end-point assessment of my apprenticeship”.

BHP Law remains committed to nurturing the next generation of legal professionals and is proud to support the continued success of the NESA Programme. By investing in solicitor apprenticeships, the firm is helping to widen access to the legal profession, break down traditional barriers to entry, and create a more inclusive and diverse future for law. The programme not only equips apprentices with academic knowledge and practical skills, but also fosters confidence, resilience, and a deep understanding of the profession from day one. BHP Law believes that by mentoring and empowering young talent, it is shaping the future of legal excellence in the North East and beyond.