Forsters’ solicitor apprenticeship offers a six‑year route to qualification, combining paid work with academic study in a supportive, professional environment.
Join us in September 2027 as one of up to four apprentices commencing a six-year journey to solicitor qualification. Our apprenticeship programme is designed to expand your horizons, offering a unique opportunity to dive into a variety of practice areas. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to earn while they learn, discover their passions in a supportive environment, and gain invaluable experience from industry leaders.
Join us in September 2027 as one of up to four apprentices commencing a six-year journey to solicitor qualification. Our apprenticeship programme is designed to expand your horizons, offering a unique opportunity to dive into a variety of practice areas. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to earn while they learn, discover their passions in a supportive environment, and gain invaluable experience from industry leaders.
As you progress through the programme, you’ll be given increasing responsibility, enabling you to develop both technically and personally as you move towards qualification. At Forsters, we are committed to providing a high‑quality training experience and supporting the long‑term development of our people.
Interested in starting your journey with us? We’d love for you to join one of our open days or online events (applications opening September 2026) to learn more about us before you apply. Take this opportunity to get to know us, and we look forward to getting to know you better too!
In September 2026 we will be opening applications for our September 2027 solicitor apprentice cohort. Our first cohort of solicitor apprentices joined us in September 2025, so this will be our second cohort recruited.
You can register your interest for our 2027 solicitor apprenticeship here.
Key dates
Applications will open for the 2027 solicitor apprenticeship in September 2026. We will also open applications for an October Q&A session (online) and a November open day (in person).
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TBC September 2026
Applications open for all opportunities
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TBC October 2026
Applications close for Q&A and Q&A hosted online
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TBC November 2026
Applications close for open day and open day hosted in person
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TBC February 2027
Applications close for 2027 solicitor apprenticeship
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March 2027
Assessment days
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TBC September 2027
Apprenticeship start date
Discover the firm opportunities beyond your work
At Forsters, we take happiness seriously! We offer a range of firm socials and clubs for you to dive into, including football, netball, running, rounders, yoga, choir, and even a book club. We encourage you to jump into the full Forsters experience and join our regular firm-wide and team gatherings.
We are also driven by what really matters, and you can also get involved with our Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) committee and charity networks, which host fantastic events throughout the year. The firm also runs a lunch club that helps feed those in need at a local church on Thursdays.
For more details on all these opportunities, check out our Responsible Business pages.
Programme structure and rotations
Years one and two
In your first two years, you’ll be based in one department, giving you time to develop a strong understanding of the work, the team and how the firm operates. During this period, you’ll also spend six months with our Compliance team, providing valuable insight into the wider business and the regulatory framework that supports it.
Years three and four
In years three and four, you’ll begin rotating annually through a selection of our core practice areas. These may include construction, commercial real estate, real estate disputes and residential property. These rotations are designed to broaden your experience and help you identify the areas of law that most interest you.
Years five and six
In your final two years, you’ll rotate alongside our trainee solicitors, completing six seats across different practice areas. This will expose you to a wide range of legal work and prepare you for qualification.
Your final seat will be in your chosen qualifying department, allowing you to consolidate your experience and support a smooth transition into a newly qualified role.
Training and qualification
Years one to five
During the first five years of the apprenticeship, you’ll combine your role at Forsters with a part time law degree. You’ll typically work four days a week at the firm, with one day dedicated to your studies. This stage of the programme is delivered by BPP University alongside your fellow apprentices.
Year six
In the final year, you’ll prepare for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). As before, you’ll work four days a week at Forsters, with one study day to support your SQE preparation. On successful completion, you’ll meet the requirements to qualify as a solicitor with the firm.
Learning and development
Alongside your academic studies, you’ll be supported by Forsters’ Learning and Development team throughout the apprenticeship. This includes a programme of training sessions and workshops covering areas such as communication skills, professional conduct, confidence‑building and presentation skills.
Our aim is to support your development not only as a lawyer, but as a professional, equipping you with the skills and experience needed for a long‑term career at Forsters.
Application process
Our solicitor apprenticeship recruitment process is designed to be fair, transparent and engaging, while allowing us to understand your interests, strengths and motivation for joining Forsters.
Entry reqirements
We welcome applications from Year 13 students and recent school leavers.
Applicants should be aiming for, or have achieved, A‑level grades of ABB or above. If you completed your education outside the UK and do not hold A‑levels, you will be able to include details of your equivalent qualifications and grades within the application form.
Please note that if you’ve completed a degree or are currently working towards one, this apprenticeship isn’t the right fit for you – but we encourage you to explore our graduate opportunities instead.
What we look for
We are looking for motivated, open minded individuals who are ready to begin their apprenticeship with Forsters in September 2027.
We value a range of strengths and perspectives. Alongside strong academic ability, we look for candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in Forsters, an enthusiasm for learning, and an understanding of what a career in law involves. As a friendly and collaborative firm, we are particularly keen to hear from individuals who are personable, committed and keen to contribute as part of a team.
Every application is reviewed by a member of our Early Careers panel, and we do not use automatic screening tools. Throughout the process, we are interested in learning more about you – your interests, motivations and what has led you to pursue a legal career.
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1
Online application
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2
Application form deadline
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3
Early Careers team review application
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4
Video interview (self-record and submit)
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5
Early Careers Panel review video interview
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6
Assessment day (March 2027)
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7
Apprenticeship offer
Open days and events
Discover the Forsters difference through our open days and events. Whether you join us in person or tune in virtually, it’s your window into the vibrant heart of our firm.
Q&A session with Early Careers
It’s more than an event; it’s a conversation. We’re here to guide you, offering support and advice for your application and demystifying the path to qualification, no matter where you’re starting from. Embrace this opportunity to connect, learn, and envision your future with us. We can’t wait to meet you!
TBC October 2026 Apprentice Application Q&A session with Early Careers (online)
- Applications open: TBC
- Applications close: TBC
Open day
TBC November 2026 Apprentice Open Day (in person)
- Applications open: TBC
- Applications close: TBC
Please note we can support with travel expenses to attend our open days.
Fairs
You can come and chat with our Early Careers team and solicitor apprentices at a variety of recruitment events. Please keep an eye out for confirmed dates in September 2026.
Please note applications for these events do not come through the firm.
The pathway to joining our open days and events!
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1
Online application
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2
Early Careers team review application
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3
Open day/insight day/event offer
How to apply
In September 2026 we will be opening applications for our September 2027 solicitor apprentice cohort. In the meantime, you can register your interest in our apprenticeship here. We will use this information to notify you when applications reopen.
All applications for the solicitor apprenticeship, open days and events should be made online through AllHires. We do not accept paper applications or CVs.
Solicitor apprenticeship
Following submission of an online application and completion of a self recorded video interview, shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an assessment day. This provides an opportunity for you to demonstrate your potential and for us to assess whether the apprenticeship is the right fit for both you and the firm.
The application for the apprenticeship will not be closed early.
Applications open: TBC September 2026
Applications close: TBC February 2027
Open days and events
All applications will be reviewed by a member of the Early Careers team. We do not use any automatic filtering systems. The open day/events application may be closed early due to the number of applications received.
TBC October 2026 Application Q&A session with Early Careers (online)
Applications open: TBC September 2026
Applications close: TBC October 2026
TBC November 2026 Open Day (in person)
Applications open: TBC September 2026
Applications close: TBC November 2026
How should I raise any extra support requirements I may have?
Forsters’ Commitment to Equality and Inclusion:
At Forsters, we’re dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for everyone. We strive to attract a diverse range of candidates and encourage applications from all backgrounds. Our commitment to equal opportunities is unwavering, and we believe that a variety of perspectives enriches our firm and the legal services we provide.
If you require any support or adjustments during the application or hiring process, we’re here to assist you. You can include these details in your application form or directly inform the Early Careers team by emailing [email protected]. We understand that each candidate’s needs are unique, and we’re ready to accommodate them to ensure a fair and supportive recruitment journey.
Join us at Forsters, where your individuality is valued, and your potential is recognised. We’re looking forward to welcoming you into a firm where you can thrive and make a difference.
FAQs
Applications
What is the minimum academic criteria for applications?
We’re excited to welcome applications for our solicitor apprenticeship from Year 13 students and recent school leavers. If you’re aiming for or have achieved A-level grades of ABB or higher we’d love to hear from you! For those who have completed their education outside the U.K. and do not have A levels, there is space within the application form to add details of your equivalent qualifications and grades.
Please note that if you’ve completed a degree or are currently working towards one, this apprenticeship isn’t the right fit for you – but we encourage you to explore our graduate opportunities instead.
I don’t have any legal work experience; can I still apply?
Yes! We are open minded to all candidates who wish to apply. You do not need to have completed legal or any other kind of work experience to be a strong applicant.
If my application is unsuccessful, can I reapply?
If you are unsuccessful in applying this year, you are welcome to reapply in the future.
Open days and events
Do you hold open days?
Yes, we do! We host open days and events at various times throughout the year. Any upcoming events will be advertised here.
Do you attend fairs?
Absolutely! We attend a variety of careers events and fairs each year. our schedule may vary, we typically attend fairs with the Uptree, City Century and Legal Cheek.
Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) within Recruitment
How should I raise any extra support requirements I may have?
Forsters’ Commitment to Equality and Inclusion:
At Forsters, we’re dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for everyone. We strive to attract a diverse range of candidates and encourage applications from all backgrounds. Our commitment to equal opportunities is unwavering, and we believe that a variety of perspectives enriches our firm and the legal services we provide.
If you require any support or adjustments during the application or hiring process, we’re here to assist you. You can include these details in your application form or directly inform the Early Careers team by emailing [email protected]. We understand that each candidate’s needs are unique, and we’re ready to accommodate them to ensure a fair and supportive recruitment journey.
Join us at Forsters, where your individuality is valued, and your potential is recognised. We’re looking forward to welcoming you into a firm where you can thrive and make a difference.
Do you contribute towards expenses to attend open days and assessment days?
Yes, we can support with travel expenses for those attending open days and assessment days. We are happy to reimburse for within mainland UK (train/bus/driving). If likely to exceed £150 please let us know in advance.
How does Forsters approach diversity and inclusion in the recruitment process?
At Forsters, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our Early Careers strategy. Our team collaborates closely with the firm’s D&I committee and support networks to continually enhance our processes. Here are a few ways we’re making a difference:
Blind First-Round Interviews: On assessment days, our interviewers don’t see your application form before meeting you, ensuring a fair and unbiased process.
Contextual Recruitment Tool: We use REALRating’s contextual tool within our online application to consider your achievements in the context of your personal background.
MyPlus Consulting Gold Membership: As a gold member of MyPlus Consulting, we focus on inclusive recruitment for candidates with disabilities. More information can be found at MyPlus Consulting.
Halo Code Membership: We’re members of the Halo Code, supporting a future free from hair discrimination. We encourage you to attend our events and assessments feeling comfortable and confident in your natural hair. Learn more at Halo.
Disability Confident Certification: We’re certified under the Disability Confident scheme, and we’re committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. In line with Disability Confident requirements, our minimum criteria for an invitation for interview (assessment day stage) would be steps 1-4 below:
1. Submit your online application
2. The Early Careers team review your application for eligibility and quality of response
3. If invited to progress, record and submit a video interview
4. Our Graduate Recruitment Panel review the video interview
We’re excited to meet talented candidates from all backgrounds and look forward to welcoming you to Forsters!