Learning Law in the Real World: Amelia’s T Level Placement Experience
Gaining real-world legal experience
As part of her Level 3 Legal Services T Level course at Barnsley College, Amelia Shepherd completed her industry placement with NP Solicitors, gaining first-hand experience of working in a professional legal environment and confirming her ambition to pursue a career in law.
“I enjoy working on the cases as they are really interesting. I also enjoy the environment as the people there are so lovely.”
Day-to-day responsibilities
During her placement, Amelia supported the legal team with a range of administrative and case-related tasks. These included preparing files for cases, completing file notes, and attending meetings alongside solicitors, barristers and other legal specialists. This gave her valuable insight into how cases are managed and progressed in a real working practice.
Applying learning in a professional setting
One of the biggest benefits of Amelia’s placement was the opportunity to apply what she was learning at College directly to her role.
For example, as part of her Extended Study Project, she had been learning how to draft professional letters. During the same week at her placement, she was able to write real letters for the firm, helping her to build confidence and reinforce her learning.
Personal and professional development
Working in a busy legal environment helped Amelia to grow both personally and professionally. She feels she has matured through working alongside adults and professionals and has developed greater confidence in herself and her abilities.
“I feel like I have definitely matured as a person. I have become more confident as a person and believe in myself more.”
She has also strengthened key workplace skills, particularly her IT skills, as much of her work involved using digital systems and case management software.
Building trust and understanding the industry
A standout moment for Amelia was realising how much trust the firm placed in her. Working in a solicitor’s practice requires strict confidentiality, and being trusted with sensitive information made her feel valued as part of the team.
The placement also gave her a deeper understanding of the legal industry. Amelia now has a clearer picture of the level of effort involved in legal work and has gained insight into how skills such as maths and problem-solving play an important role in law.
Shaping future career plans
The experience confirmed Amelia’s desire to pursue a career in law and helped her identify a specific area of interest. She is now keen to work in personal injury law in the future, something she discovered through her placement experience.
Advice for other students
Amelia’s advice to other students starting a similar placement is simple:
“Be the best version of yourself and always put in effort – you never know what positives it could lead to.”
