Programme structure
This programme is taught one day per week in either lecture or seminar format depending on the topic. Lectures will be used to outline the theoretic framework and principles of law, including key case law and statutory provisions and provide a basis for further, in-depth study.
Apprentices will undertake three modules per academic year, except in year five where apprentices will take four modules. Apprentices will also be expected to consolidate the lectures and prepare for seminars by reading law reports, statutes, textbooks, casebooks, journal and periodical articles. Guidance on reading material will be provided by the module leader.
With support from the employer, apprentices are required to spend 20% of paid working hours on studies and be able to evidence this. This is a statutory requirement for apprenticeships and the funding is conditional on this being met. Off-the-job learning includes activities which have not previously been a part of the role or furthers apprentice development into new areas.
Teaching and assessment
Apprentices will engage in four to seven hours of academic study (depending on the semester) to include lectures, workshops and seminars.
The lectures will be used to outline the theoretical framework and basic principles of law, including key case law and statutory provisions. Apprentices will be expected to consolidate the lectures and prepare for seminars by reading law reports, statutes, textbooks, casebooks and other materials provided by the module leader.
The learning strategies in seminars may vary, and there will be an expectation that everyone participates. This will help apprentices to underpin understanding of the theoretical framework and principles of law by application to and analysis of problem scenarios.
Group activities provide a flexible learning forum with the nature of the content varying from inviting guest speakers to participate in discussion to developing skills such as debating and presenting.
Assessment on the programme is used to determine candidates' ability to practice effectively, methods used include:
- written exams
- multiple choice questions
- moot
- negotiations
- advocacy
- written assignments
- portfolio.
Whilst on the programme apprentices will undertake assessments SQE1 and SQE2. These are objective tests and will take place away from the work place in timed conditions and are administered by the Solicitor Regulation Authority.
Employer and apprentice commitments
In order to deliver the programme, the employer undertakes to:
- conduct a workplace induction and set out a contract of employment
- provide an appropriately qualified workplace mentor to support the apprentice
- attend apprentice's progress review (twice a year)
- release apprentice for scheduled off-the-job training
- have an Apprenticeship Agreement in place from the start of the programme.
Throughout the programme, apprentices will:
- attend the workplace for the agreed pattern as set out in the employment contract
- record all training sessions and off-the-job learning
- attend scheduled university learning sessions and complete all assessments as required by the university and End Point Assessment Organisation
- behave in a safe and responsible manner at the workplace and university
- engage with regular progress reviews
- complete, throughout the apprenticeship, a professional development portfolio.
Staff profile
Claire-Michelle Smyth
Dr Claire-Michelle Smyth, LLM, is your course leader. Claire-Michelle graduated with a PhD from Queens University Belfast where her research centred on social and economic rights and the European Convention on Human Rights. Claire-Michelle's main interests are in Equity and Trusts and Human Rights Law. She has published extensively in this area and regularly attends national and international conferences discussing her research.
Law societies
Student Law Society
The Student Law Society is a thriving community of over 150 law students. With support from the Students’ Union, it organises an exciting schedule of social and educational events.
Members have recently enjoyed visits to Lewes Crown Court, Brighton Magistrates Court and the Houses of Parliament. Social events have included paintballing, go-karting, surfing, a Christmas Ball at the Brighton Hilton Metropole, and a trip with law students from other universities to Amsterdam.
Through initiatives such as these, the society provides excellent opportunities for personal development and for networking with other students interested in a career in law.
Student Mooting Society
The Mooting Society has a fast-growing membership of over 120 students. The society provides workshops, guest speakers, socials, trips and competitions to help build members' confidence and adversarial skills that are increasingly essential in any career path in the legal sector.
The objective of the mooting competitions is to develop the research and advocacy skills of future practitioners. Students argue both sides of a fictitious legal case in a court room setting in front of a panel of judges.
Fees and funding information for apprentices
Course fees
As an apprentice the cost of your learning programme is covered by your employer through their Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) account.
Student finance
Higher and degree level apprentices are not eligible for any element of student finance. This is because they receive a salary instead of the student loan package. However, if you are experiencing any financial difficulties, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 642 888.
Learning support
Apprentices studying at Higher and degree level may be able to access funding in relation to additional support but this is available through the university and not Disabled Students Allowance. Apprentices may also be able to apply for Access to Work funding for work-based equipment and software. Please contact the Disability and Dyslexia team on 01273 643 799.
Living costs and benefits
Higher and degree level apprentices must fulfil the standard eligibility criteria in order to apply for means tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit and Housing Benefit. If you have any questions about entitlement to benefits, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 642888.
Higher and degree level apprentices who are undertaking a full-time mode of study can be treated as being exempt from paying Council Tax. Although some programmes require study on a day-release arrangement, this can still be classed as full-time study. You will need to obtain a letter from the Student Information Desk at any campus and send this to your Council Tax department when you enrol on the programme.
Other
Brighton and Hove bus discount
NUS card