Why it matters: The ranking recognises small and medium-sized businesses that demonstrate outstanding commitment to creating high-quality apprenticeships, championing social mobility and improving diversity within their sectors.
The big picture: Attwells, which has offices in Ipswich, Woodbridge, Colchester and London, was ranked by the Department for Education and Rate My Apprenticeship in their annual league table released last Friday, 4 July.
By the numbers: The firm has welcomed more than 20 apprentices in the past five years, many of whom have progressed from entry-level roles to fee-earner positions across conveyancing, private client and commercial departments.
What they're saying: "Apprenticeships open doors that might otherwise remain closed. We are proud to be recognised nationally for investing in new talent and for making the legal profession more representative of the communities we serve," said founder and Managing Partner Nick Attwell.
The details: The firm's apprenticeship and training programme is led by Charlotte Reason, senior associate and head of training and development. Current apprentices include Adam Smith, Alanis James, Alice Turner, Alima Bojang, Ben Friar, Ella Sheppard, Ellie Houghton, Holly Foskett, Holly Waldron, India Badini, Isabella Thompson, Jacob Abadom, Josh Barber, Konstantina Karamintzou, Kristian Bitter, Mia Curran, Tara King, Tom Gall and Weronika Smagala.
These apprentices are combining paid legal work with formal study towards CLC, CILEX and Level 7 solicitor qualifications.
The bottom line: Attwells' national recognition demonstrates how local firms can successfully develop talent whilst improving access to legal careers.
