Millie Smith

Millie completed her Level 3 Learning & Development apprenticeship after she joined in 2021, and moved across to the graduate recruitment team where she is currently working towards her Level 5 People professional qualification. Millie is currently an HR Advisor (Graduate Recruitment). 

What support have you experienced as an apprentice at Bristows?

The support I have experienced over the course of both apprenticeship qualifications has been fundamental to my overall development and progression at Bristows. During both apprenticeships, I have been given dedicated time each week to focus on my apprenticeship work. This time is flexible, which has been especially helpful when managing both workloads at different periods throughout the year. For example, during busier work periods, I have chosen to split my apprenticeship hours across the week. However, in the lead up to an apprenticeship deadline, I have also had the scope to take a full study day to work on my assignments. My manager has also been a great support, regularly checking in with me to assess my workload, build my confidence and provide guidance where necessary. The wider team also contributes to my support system at Bristows. Many of my colleagues have completed apprenticeships themselves and are always willing to offer support, whether that be through answering my questions, sharing their personal experiences or providing valuable feedback on my work/performance. There is definitely a positive culture of learning at Bristows which has been reflected in the support received during my apprenticeship journey.

How has the apprenticeship helped you develop professionally and personally?

My apprenticeships at Bristows have been incredibly valuable in shaping both my professional and personal development. During the classroom aspect of my apprenticeships, I have been exposed to a broad range of theories, topics and key information that I have then been able to apply to my day-to-day role. During this time, I have learned how to support a range of key HR functions including recruitment, learning and development, onboarding, employee relations and more. By working closely with my apprenticeship provider and members of the HR team, I have enhanced my understanding of these functions and have also further developed significant soft skills such as communication, confidentiality and adaptability.

One of the key personal takeaways from completing my apprenticeship has been the positive impact on my confidence. Over the course of my apprenticeships, I have learnt how to communicate effectively with colleagues of varying seniority. This has allowed me to become more comfortable in sharing ideas, contributing to senior discussions and leading certain projects. My apprenticeships have also furthered the development of my organisational skills as I am required to balance apprenticeship deadlines and general workload. I’ve developed routines that help me manage my time effectively, ensuring that I stay focused and productive throughout the day.

Did you have any apprehensions before joining and what advice would you give to a prospective applicant?

Before starting my first apprenticeship, my main worry was joining a corporate firm as a school leaver with limited experience. I was concerned that I may feel intimidated in a professional environment and that I may be perceived as less capable, as I had chosen not to go down the university route. However, my initial concerns quickly subsided after meeting my team and settling into my role. I soon came to terms with the fact that there wasn’t an expectation of me to know everything from day one. Everyone I’ve encountered at Bristows from my first few weeks up to now has been friendly and encouraging of my apprenticeship, allowing me to learn new skills and step out of my comfort zone.

To anyone considering the apprenticeship route at Bristows, my advice would be to approach the entirety of the process with a willingness to learn. Although you are not expected to know everything at the beginning of your apprenticeship, you must be engaged and eager to develop. You will have dedicated individuals to support you throughout your qualification, both through Bristows and the training provider. Make sure you utilise the resources and support available to you to ensure you are making a good impression and getting the most out of the apprenticeship!

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

After completing my A-levels, I was unsure about what specific career I wanted to go into at the time, and I didn’t want to commit to years of study at university without a clear direction. I began looking at apprenticeships as I was keen to gain experience in a corporate work environment and develop skills that could be directly put into practice.

The apprenticeship route has allowed me to apply my classroom learning to real-life scenarios, which not only helped me develop my understanding of the content but has provided me with further insights into industry-specific practices. Qualifying whilst working was also a contributing factor to why I chose an apprenticeship. It was important to me that I continued challenging myself with academic study after leaving sixth form, which made an apprenticeship the ideal route for me.

Why did you choose to stay at Bristows after you completed your apprenticeship?

I decided to stay at Bristows after completing my first apprenticeship due to the genuinely supportive and collaborative working environment I had experienced throughout the entire process. The relationships formed within my team and the wider firm have aided my growth both personally and professionally. From my first week as an apprentice up to now, I have felt valued in my contributions and have been continuously encouraged to take on new challenges and develop existing skills.

Another key reason was the opportunity for progression. It was made clear after finishing my first apprenticeship that there would be further qualification prospects if that was something I was interested in. It appealed to me to stay at a firm that is openly invested in my ongoing development post-apprenticeship.