Training Programme

Boodle Hatfield is renowned for the high quality of its training.

All trainees are involved in client work from the start and from an early stage they are encouraged to handle their own files personally, with the appropriate supervision. Our trainees therefore have a greater degree of client contact than in many other firms with the result that they should be able to take on more responsibility at an early stage.

Responsibility
Our trainees speak highly about their experiences of attending client calls and meetings, attending court, the level of client contact they have as well as the feeling that they play a meaningful part in the success of the firm through their involvement in matters. Graham Winkley, Training Principal, is keen to let trainees know from the outset that they “are there because there is a job to do that means that [they] are playing a key role in moving matters forward.” We have a fantastic support team that mean that Fee Earners at all levels, including trainees, are free to do the transactional and advisory work for the client. One trainee commented “I have been surprised by how meaty the tasks are.”

Training
Much training happens “on the job”, which means that trainees gain knowledge and practical experience working with real clients. In addition to external training courses, departments run their own know-how meeting sessions and there is also a regular internal programme of seminars (often with external speakers) on a wide range of legal subjects.

We also work with highly regarded training providers to deliver the Professional Skills Course element of the training contract during the two-year training contract. The elective element will always be tailored to an individual’s seat to complement your ‘on the job’ learning.

Mentoring and Development
You will be working with friendly and approachable partners, associates and senior solicitors who are very used to ensuring you understand what you have been asked to do and providing positive and helpful guidance on the job.

As one of our trainees you can expect to share an office with your supervisor, enabling easy access to each other. If you are not sharing with your supervisor you will be sitting with another senior member of the department. This arrangement gives you regular opportunities to ask questions and receive feedback, as well as expose you to what the role looks like at partner/senior associate level. Our trainees have both a primary and secondary supervisor, maximising the amount of face to face time they can have with a supervisor. We encourage others in the department to continue sharing opportunities for trainee learning and where appropriate to invite a trainee to join them in relevant calls/meetings or task. Trainees are equally encouraged to seek opportunities within the department too. Trainees are also equipped to work from home when necessary to maximise opportunity and flexibility.

We spend time with each trainee to ensure that they understand how they are getting on. As a trainee you have formal appraisals every three months, which are designed as a two way process. These meetings give you the chance to discuss your progress and to indicate where more can be done to help with your training and development. In addition, the Firm’s Training Principal and HR Department are always available to discuss training matters and any other issues that may arise.

From day one, you are matched with a ‘buddy’ from the year above who can help guide through any areas of which you are unsure and help you to settle in.