As you may well know, we are currently looking for legal graduates to join our graduate scheme.
The three-year course will see you gain experience as a legal assistant, undertake diverse work as a trainee and be supported throughout your SQEs.
In this article, we asked Trainee Solicitor Bethany Pinner who complete the Graduate Scheme, what her experience was like. She talks about what her role involved, the support she got and lists some tips for those looking to apply.
How was your first year in the Graduate Scheme?
My first year in the Graduate Scheme was very interesting and I learnt something new every day.
I really enjoyed doing the Graduate Scheme with Frettens, and that’s down to the brilliant people here. The family team in particular made my transition into full-time employment feel easy, answering any and all questions that I had.
Why did you choose Frettens?
I chose Frettens for several reasons.
Firstly, they have a wide range of practice areas. This appealed to me as I knew that I would be able to gain experience in a variety of different departments, not just one.
This also means that your options are open and you don’t have to immediately know which area of law you want to qualify into.
Secondly, I read online about how friendly the culture is here – which was really appealing. Upon starting here, and meeting all the friendly faces, my expectations have been surpassed!
Lastly, Frettens offer a really enticing Graduate Scheme, which stood out to me as I had not seen other local firms offer anything similar.
What does your role involve day-to-day?
I worked in the Family team in Christchurch and was exposed to a variety of intriguing and sometimes complex work within divorce, financial and children matters.
Every day is different, but some tasks I undertook on a daily basis were taking enquiries for our free initial chats, and drafting emails, letters and Court forms.
My colleagues at the time Zoe Burcombe, James Privett and Katelyn Webster also completed the Grauate Scheme; training in various departments. You can read their experiences here.
What sort of support do you get at Frettens?
The firm, and everyone that I’ve met here, have been very supportive.
In particular, I have found the Frettens Academy, a session where all junior lawyers meet to discuss various topics relating to training, really useful.
There are a lot of other colleagues that are in a similar position to me working towards a similar goal. Having that peer group there is especially helpful as you feel as though you are all progressing together and can chat about shared experiences.
What tips do you have for new graduates?
- Be open-minded about the area of law you think you would like to go into
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions, you won’t be expected to know everything from day one!
- Make the most of people who have already finished their training – they’ll have unique insight
- Talk to people who are in the same position as you and share your experiences
My colleague Katelyn Webster has detailed her tips for applying to the Gradate Scheme, including how to write your CV, covering letter and ace your interview! Click here to read it.
If you want to hear more about what training at Frettens is like, you can read Corporate & Commercial Trainee Harvey Paveley’s article here.
Looking for a training contract?
We are currently looking for ambitious and bright graduates to join our scheme and get qualified!
If you’re great at communicating and able to work well with clients and colleagues we want to hear from you.
Send your CV to our Operations Manager Catharine Snow on csnow@frettens.co.uk, or find out more first here.
Applications for 2026 are now open and will close on the 24th April.
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