What is the Bott Academy, is it a college?
The Bott Academy is a formalised training scheme for staff members which process applications from staff members who look to further their level of education.
Are there any age restrictions to studying through the Bott Academy?
The only age restriction is that set by the government in that study in the form of an apprenticeship can only be sought for those aged 16 years and over.
Do I need to go to university to become a Solicitor?
There are several routes to becoming a solicitor, one of which is an apprenticeship which requires face to face study approx. 11 days a year which would generally take place at a university. The Legal Practice Course / Solicitors Qualifying Exam and Practice Skills Course are all required to become a Solicitor, all of which usually include a small amount of attendance (LPC part time / PSC approx. 8 days in total). The traditional route of Law Degree would require either full time or part time attendance at University.
What subjects should I study at school that will support a career in law?
English and Maths are compulsory for all students and are a requirement at Level C (or equivalent) along with ICT to enrol onto an apprenticeship. We would suggest that students select any other subject which they are interested in and enjoy; it is far easier to study and more information is absorbed when studying a subject that they enjoy. Students often change their minds in what career paths they think they will follow; it is important they enjoy the journey.
Should I study towards my A levels first or straight from GCSEs?
We would always suggest students sit their A Levels before starting an apprenticeship. It is common for students to change their minds and decide on a different career pathway, those new choices may require A Levels. This additional time at school also gives them a couple more years to mature and prepare themselves for the working environment by seeking volunteer work and part-time roles after school and weekends.
Would I be better doing a law degree or an apprenticeship?
This choice is totally dependent on the individual. An apprenticeship leaves no debt as all funds are paid for between the government and the employer. A full time law degree provides a certain lifestyle/experience. Some prefer to have a degree, some employers (decreasing numbers) still require employees to have a degree, and some will only accept applications from graduates who have received the highest grades.
Do I get paid more if I have a degree?
Salaries are provided to employees based on their role, experience and merit. Employees with a degree are not guaranteed to receive a higher salary than those without.
Would I go to University on day release if I do an apprenticeship?
Different level apprenticeships have different requirements. There are some dates whereby attendance is required at University, the provider of the apprenticeship would set this out in the terms of the apprenticeship but is usually around 10-12 days a year. The rest of the 20% study time would be either at home or chosen study location.
How much do I earn when I start?
This would completely be dependent on the role applied for and level of experience of the individual. Enquiries relating to salaries will be discussed within the application process.
How much do I earn when I’m qualified?
This would be dependent on length of service, role, level of qualification and work ethic.
Can I be a solicitor without studying at all?
The simple answer is no. It is possible to work as a fee earner without legal qualifications by working up through the ranks, however studying towards the CILEx qualification will help tremendously with the understanding of the law and therefore assist in carrying out the role.
How much study do I have to do every day / week?
We always suggest that when working a full time job as well as studying towards a qualification, a minimum of 7-9 hours per week is required so that you get the best out of your course and improve the chances of passing exams at the end. Increased hours are usually expected when revision is required directly before exams.
Do I need to have work experience to get a job in a law firm?
Work experience is not a necessity, however voluntary work is always well regarded and there are always transferrable skills from part time roles, even if they are not office based.
Do I need a certain level of qualification in law to work in a law firm?
There are many roles within a law firm. Only 7% of our staff are Solicitors, other roles include fee earners, admin, office assistants, marketing team members and IT team members. People can join law firms qualified or non-qualified. They can choose if they want to become qualified whilst they are working by way of distance learning or apprenticeships.
Do we provide training contracts?
Yes, there is opportunity for training contracts for Bott employees. The application process is rigorous and competitive due to the costs of training contracts, however we believe the right applicants can excel.
Can anyone be an apprentice?
The enrolment requirements for an apprenticeship are set by the government. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age, live in England and be eligible to work in the UK.
Traditional routes into Law
Those wishing to join Bott and Co after completing a law Degree or looking to start their Legal Practice Course (LPC), or who have a non-law Degree and want to convert through the General Diploma in Law (GDL), need support in the next steps of their career journey.
Bott and Co has many applicants who join us wanting to continue with their education, including the LPC and the GDL, who we gladly take on board and support, if they show dedication through Attitude, Aptitude, Application and the Ability to Adapt.
Non-Law qualifications and courses
The Bott Academy supports legal qualifications and non-legal qualifications. Colleagues can attend courses such as media training, management training, and data protection training, to further their skillset.
For those interested in non-legal positions, our job vacancy page will state whether or not apprenticeships are available. However, if the position you are interested in is not available, we can offer an alternative route for the right applicant.
Courses currently being studied by The Bott Academy members are:
- Management Apprenticeships.
- Team Leader Apprenticeships.
- CIPD (Human resources)
- Business Administration
- AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)
- CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
