What is the Frettens Academy like?

In this video, we sit down with Family Solicitor and former Trainee, Katelyn Webster to talk about her time at Frettens.

Katelyn covers:

• What it’s like working at Frettens
• What her favourite thing about working at Frettens is
• Her experience on the Graduate Scheme
• The support at Frettens
• The benefits of doing the Frettens Graduate Scheme
• What the Frettens Academy is like
• What the transition from Trainee to qualified Solicitor is like

What has your career path been like it Frettens?

Due to Covid, I was unable to undertake a placement year at university and unfortunately did not have any legal experience.

I therefore wanted to get my foot in the door and immediately thought Frettens was a very good fit to enable me to do just that and then, the Graduate Scheme was announced and I was lucky enough to be part of the first cohort.

What is it like to work at Frettens?

Frettens is a lovely place to work as everyone is very supportive. I have found everyone to be very approachable, and the work is very rewarding.

What is your favourite thing about working at Frettens?

My favourite thing about working at Frettens is that there's a strong emphasis on teamwork.

What is the Graduate Scheme like?

The Graduate Scheme focuses on the SQE route to qualification, and it's a brilliant opportunity for inspiring Solicitors because you gain practical experience whilst studying, which really supports the practical side of the exams.

What is the support like at Frettens?

The support was very good, including:

• regular check-ins
• training opportunities,
• one-to-ones with the head of department.

When I had a question, I could go to anyone, and they were happy to help.

What are the benefits of doing the Graduate Scheme at Frettens?

Some of the benefits of completing the Graduate Scheme with Frettens include the SQE exams and prep courses being fully funded, so you don't have that scare of an extra expense.

You also get 10 study days to help with the exam pressure, together with regular revision sessions with your cohort.

What sort of graduate do you think Frettens are looking for?

Frettens are looking for a graduate who is eager to learn, approachable, and enthusiastic to work in a team. As well as being able to take the initiative and complete tasks on their own.

What is the Frettens Academy like?

The Frettens Academy is a great opportunity for training solicitors because you learn a lot of soft skills that are usually not taught during your training period.

Why did you choose to train at Frettens?

Originally, I started as a PA in 2022 and the Graduate Scheme was announced a couple of months after I joined. Due to the culture of the firm, it felt like it was a no-brainer to train under Frettens.

Frettens also have a wide range of practise areas, which made it very practical to have my training with Frettens.

How was the transition from trainee to qualified Solicitor?

Rewarding but very challenging. I've got a lot more responsibility than I did as a trainee, but the supportive nature still stayed the same.

I felt very prepared to step into that role because the firm had allowed me to train in areas that would be highly beneficial as a Family Solicitor.

Describe Frettens in three words

Approachable, progressive and modern.

Want to apply?

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.