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My career journey at Co-op began almost nine years ago in one of our insurance contact centres. Since then, I’ve had a squiggly career moving across roles in Supply Chain and Legal, finally achieving my dream of becoming a Solicitor when I recently qualified through the Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship programme.

The best way to achieve my goals

For me, an apprenticeship was the best way to achieve my goals. Self-funding my studies simply wasn’t an option, so I began exploring apprenticeship routes. I was keen to achieve this at Co-op, and with the support of a great manager and team, I became the first Graduate Solicitor Apprentice in our team and at Co-op. This apprenticeship enabled me to become a qualified solicitor in just over two years, earning a qualification equivalent to a Masters Degree.

Looking back, I don’t think I’d be where I am today without this apprenticeship. The powerful thing about apprenticeships is that they’re not like traditional forms of study, where learning is often disconnected from practical elements of a job. They’re about gaining real-world skills that you’ll use for life. I’m now a passionate advocate for apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships are for everyone

If I can share some advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship, it would simply be: go for it. A common myth about apprenticeships is that they’re only for people straight out of school or that by doing an apprenticeship you’ll be a junior member of the team. In fact, apprenticeships are for everyone, regardless of where you are in your career.

Apprenticeships truly are life-changing. They provide opportunities to grow and achieve what might otherwise feel out of reach. For me, it’s been the key to achieving my dream.

Jessica East, Solicitor Apprentice