A little about Halima’s apprenticeship…
Apprenticeship Title
Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship
Job title and employer
Legal Apprentice at Ofcom
What are 3 skills you’ve learned so far?
Critical and Strategic thinking
Attention to detail
Taking proactive initiative
What are your interests outside of work?
Photography
Sightseeing
Reading
F1 (I'm no expert, just a new founded interest!)
____________________________________________________________________
What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship as your next step?
Choosing your future isn't easy, but it's worth every challenge. Setbacks are inevitable; to reach your full potential, perseverance and dedication are what move you forward. During A-levels, the push for UCAS and getting into a Russell Group university was the dream for most students. With many teachers unfamiliar and sceptical about the degree apprenticeship route, it became a solo mission for me. I've always learned best through action, exposure and reflection, not just reading from a textbook and memorising. That is why an apprenticeship felt like the perfect fit; it offers day-one experience of the working world and combines work with academic learning in a balanced, structured way.
I was first exposed to the apprenticeship world during an internship at BCLP in the summer of Year 12. I was immersed into the life of a trainee solicitor, and by the end of the two weeks my mind was set. I spent hours researching into the field and the routes within, enrolled in more work experience and grew my network. When Year 13 arrived and exams were approaching fast, Visionpath came to my school and ran a workshop on apprenticeships, highlighting their commitment to helping diverse individuals from less advantaged backgrounds succeed through training and support. The session introduced Ofcom and outlined the application process, it felt like a golden chance.
"Now, as an apprentice ambassador at Visionpath, I’m looking forward to share my journey and want future apprentices to know that apprenticeships are a powerful route to success and the future for many industries."
What kinds of things do you get up to in your role? Any tasks you especially enjoy?
My role carries the kind of pressure that pushes me to perform at my best. The thrill of responsibility and being trusted with meaningful work turns challenges into opportunities for growth.
As a legal apprentice, I’m involved in a wide variety of tasks. One day I might be giving internal legal advice to clients, and the next collaborating with government bodies like DSIT on document preparation. I’ve helped compile court bundles, attended hearings at the High Court of Justice for litigation cases, and drafted formal regulatory statements for publication. Alongside this, I balance university studies, networking, and volunteering. It’s hectic, but every moment is worth it!
I’m grateful for the experience gained through rotations across Enforcement, Procurement & Contracts, Commercial, and Governance & Accountability. These opportunities have sharpened my attention to detail, strengthened my communication, and built confidence through networking and stepping outside my comfort zone.
What’s been the standout highlight of your apprenticeship so far?
It’s hard to point to one standout moment because my apprenticeship has been a series of small but meaningful wins. Passing exams while collaborating on major projects, finishing publications, and receiving positive feedback from senior colleagues have all been milestones that made me proud. Landing the role itself was a huge achievement, and fitting into the team has been just as rewarding. I’ve had the chance to work on projects that make a real-world impact, such as spectrum licensing to support emergency services and railways, and online safety codes to protect children. I’ve even been part of recruitment, interviewing interns and helping shape the next generation of talent. These experiences remind me that success isn’t one big moment; it’s built through every step forward. And while I look forward to the ultimate goal of qualifying, I’m already proud of the progress I’ve made.
Have you come up against any challenges during your apprenticeship, and how did you navigate them?
The time I struggled most was at the very beginning of my apprenticeship. Starting the recruitment process during my final A-Level exams was a real challenge, the pressure of performing well academically while facing the uncertainty of securing my future with Ofcom was intense. Visionpath made the process manageable and supportive, with workshops guiding us every step of the way. After successfully completing my exams and landing my job, the next challenge began: transitioning from the structured, controlled environment of school to the dynamic world of work and university.
Luckily, I adapted quickly and understood the scope of what was expected of me. Visionpath masterclasses helped me develop the core skills needed to grow into a professional mindset. At this stage, I focused on upskilling, by improving my soft skills such as my tone of language, teamwork, and the ability to collaborate across different platforms and applications. I actively sought feedback and embraced learning opportunities, and over time, I noticed a real shift in my confidence, communication and technical skills.
"Today, I'm at a point where everything feels aligned, and I am steadily looking ahead to the next chapter of my career."
What’s helped you feel supported during your apprenticeship?
Honestly, support has come from every direction, my family, my manager, my colleagues, and Visionpath. They understand the intensity of balancing work, university, and life outside of both. That understanding makes a huge difference. Whether it’s offering guidance, checking in, or simply being approachable, their support has helped me stay grounded and motivated.
What moment made you realise you’d made the right decision choosing an apprenticeship?
Every day, I feel positively affirmed that I made the right choice. I’m thankful and grateful for the decision to pursue an apprenticeship. It wasn’t just about avoiding the traditional route, it was about finding a path that truly fits me. Visionpath played a huge role in that, from guiding me through the recruitment process to supporting my growth with masterclasses. Now, when I look at the impact of my work and the confidence I’ve built, I know I made the right choice.
"I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next."
Connect with Halima!
Here at Visionpath, our Ambassador Community is more than just a network, it’s a movement. Our ambassadors are current and former apprentices who are passionate about making a difference by sharing their real-life journeys to inspire the next generation.
Are you a current or former apprentice who wants to get involved in the movement? Email ambassadors@visionpath.co.uk to get started.
