London—Leading global law firm Dentons has announced that the inaugural cohort of three solicitor apprentices, who began their journey when the firm rolled out its apprenticeship programme in 2017, have passed their SQE examinations and two have accepted Newly Qualified (NQ) positions at the firm. Dentons has also confirmed that four individuals, who started the firm's QualiFLY programme in 2022, have all accepted NQ positions, after passing their SQE 2 examinations. QualiFLY is Dentons' internal route to qualification for paralegals.

The two apprentices who have accepted roles have taken up positions in the firm's Competition and Corporate practices, while the QualiFLY cohort join its Helix Employment, Real Estate, Property Litigation and Contentious Construction practices.

Dentons has long been a supporter of apprenticeships, being one of the first global law firms to introduce a scheme in 2017. Now in its seventh year, the firm currently has 24 apprentices – one of the largest apprentice cohorts in the UK legal market. The apprenticeships, in collaboration with learning provider BPP, provide a six-year programme across the firm's London and Milton Keynes offices. Apprentices have become integral parts of their teams, including undertaking secondments with clients.

The QualiFLY programme, also in collaboration with BPP, is designed to cultivate and support paralegals and other dedicated legal professionals on their journey to becoming future lawyers at the firm. It offers a unique opportunity, and individuals are provided with financial support to navigate the new legal qualification landscape.

Paul Jarvis, UKIME CEO said, "We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering talent and providing alternative opportunities for our apprentices and legal professionals to soar to new heights within our firm. Congratulations to our inaugural cohort from both programmes on accepting their NQ positions, and I look forward to seeing them continue to thrive at Dentons."

Anna Copeman, Trainee and Apprentice Principal at Dentons added, "We are so impressed by the accomplishments of our apprenticeship programme. It's a testament to our commitment to fostering talent, embracing diversity, and providing alternative routes to career success within the legal profession."

Jackie Hanlon, Head of Dentons Legal Delivery Centre said, "I am so proud of the success of the inaugural QualiFLY programme, which has had such a positive impact on internal candidates. The programme reaffirms our dedication to excellence and professional development in legal services, culminating in plans to open applications for a third year in 2024."

About Dentons

Across over 80 countries, Dentons helps you grow, protect, operate and finance your organization by providing uniquely global and deeply local legal solutions. Polycentric, purpose-driven and committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and sustainability, we focus on what matters most to you. www.dentons.com