My Training Contract: Growth to a Newly Qualified Solicitor

November 13, 2025

Reflections on My Training Contract: Growth, Mentorship and Looking Ahead

1. Looking back over your training contract, what’s been the biggest change in how you see yourself as a solicitor?

Looking back on my Training Contract, the biggest change in how I see myself is the growth in my confidence. Although a confident, chatty and outgoing person I would look to others for my confidence and require reassurance from my supervisors. However, now I no longer need that reassurance as much and feel trusted from both colleagues and clients. I have developed the confidence to trust my own judgement and to contribute proactively rather than waiting simply for direction. I believe that confidence is also reflected back in the trust placed in me whether through being given greater autonomy on files or by clients relying on my advice directly. This shift has helped me see myself not just a Trainee Solicitor obtaining new skills but as a Trainee Solicitor who is capable and trusted to add real value.

2. Which experience has had the biggest impact on shaping the kind of solicitor you want to be?

The experience that has had the biggest impact on shaping the kind of solicitor I want to have been working with clients facing real-life situations. Whether that be that they have had a catastrophic RTA, in an abusive marriage and want help, or they have simply seen the realms of life and would like help drafting their Wills. There will always be moments of my Training Contract that will stay with me that have had an emotional impact and put life into perspective. But that has taught me to give the utmost respect and empathy towards every single client that comes into our offices and provide the best possible service and advice I can give.

3. As you prepare for qualification, what skills do you feel most confident in, and which are you still working to strengthen?

As I approach qualification, the skills I feel most confident in are drafting and communication. Throughout my training contract, I have gained extensive experience preparing a wide range of documents which has significantly enhanced both my drafting ability and attention to detail. I am equally confident in my communication skills, both written and verbal, whether that involves clearly explaining complex issues to clients or collaborating effectively with colleagues.

While I am confident in my abilities, I firmly believe that there is always room for growth. No one is ever the finished article, and I see every experience as an opportunity to learn. I may not be the perfect solicitor yet, but I am committed to continually developing my skills and expanding my knowledge.

4. What’s been your proudest moment during your training so far?

When I think about the proudest moment of my training contract so far, it is hard to pinpoint just one. In all honestly, I feel proud every single day. At 16 years old I never imagined I would one day be in this position months away from qualification and doing the job I had once dreamed of. The fact that my hard work and determination have carried me here is something I remind myself of often.

What makes me even prouder, though, is the work I get to do with clients. Most days I am in contact with individuals going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Being able to support them, guide them and protect their interests is an incredible responsibility and a privilege. When clients express their gratitude or share their relief that their matter is finally resolved, those moments are a reminder of why I chose this career.

5. If you could give one piece of advice to a new trainee starting their contract this year, what would it be?

If I could give one piece of advice it would be to never be afraid to ask questions.

I have been fortunate to work with supervisors who are approachable, supportive and genuinely invested in helping me learn. That said, whenever you move to a new department, it is natural to feel a bit hesitant at first you do not want to seem unsure or inexperienced. But one of the biggest lessons I have learned is that your supervisors would much rather you ask a hundred questions and get something right than stay silent and get it wrong.

Your training contract is a learning experience from start to finish. No one expects you to know everything and asking questions is one of the best ways to build your confidence and develop your skills. The more you ask, the more you’ll understand.

6. Among your mentors, supervisors, and colleagues, who has had the greatest impact on you?

Throughout my training contract I have had the privilege of working with so many supportive and inspiring people but two individuals who have had the greatest impact on me are Joanne Thompson and Julia Tolerton.

Joanne Thompson, Head of the Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence department, has been a huge influence on my journey – both before and after my journey. I first worked with Joanne as a paralegal and right from the beginning she has been such a strong source of guidance and encouragement. Despite managing a huge caseload, she was never too busy to answer a question or take the time to help me understand something. Joanne has always made me feel supported and I am always grateful for the time she has taken to teach and guide me. Her work ethic and calm approach under pressure are things I really admire and aspire to emulate.

Julia Tolerton, a Solicitor in the Care department, has also had a big impact on me. Julia has been incredibly supportive and proactive in helping me learn.  She has taken me to a number of hearings and has always been keen to explain each step of the process, helping me build my confidence and understanding of the work. I have a lot of admiration for Julia, she puts genuine care into everything she does, and it is clear how much her work means to her. Working alongside her was a real privilege.

Both Joanne and Julia have not only shaped the way I approach my work, but they have also shown me the kind of Solicitor I want to become- knowledgeable, compassionate and always willing to support others.

7. What excites you most about stepping into life as a newly qualified solicitor in 2026?

Although I am feeling slightly nervous and apprehensive about qualification day, I am hugely excited for what is to come. To finally be able to say the words “I am a solicitor”, will be an incredibly rewarding moment for me. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and perseverance something that I have been striving towards for so long. It will truly be a big achievement, and I know that 16-year-old me will be smiling from ear to ear.

I cannot wait to step into this next chapter, working more independently while still learning from and being guided by experienced colleagues I am excited to take on my own matters, help client and deliver exceptional service. The thought of growing in confidence and skill while making a real difference genuinely motivates me.