Sofia Riccio joined Aspect in 2021 as a legal apprentice. We wrote a blog with her shortly after that which can be found here. Below we catch-up with her for an update to mark National Apprenticeship Week 2024.

Since joining Aspect your role has grown significantly. Could you describe that process and how your role has developed through your apprenticeship?

I initially joined Aspect as a paralegal apprentice in 2021 after completing my A-levels. The first two years of my paralegal apprenticeship were a fantastic introduction into my career, as I was able to learn many practical skills within a short period of time.

As I reached the end of the paralegal apprenticeship, I knew I wanted to extend my knowledge further, so the solicitor apprenticeship was a no-brainer to me. Aspect supported my progression onto the solicitor apprenticeship by providing the opportunity to continue with my studies. I am now studying towards my law degree and expected to qualify as a solicitor in September 2026. Aspect have given me a dedicated study day each week to complete my university work, as well as additional study leave during my exams.

As a solicitor apprentice, my responsibilities within the Legal team are incredibly varied. For instance, I review service provider agreements, monitor Aspect’s intellectual property, and more generally work with different teams in the business to progress key projects.

I regularly catch up with my manager and university coach which helps to ensure that I am on the right track. My colleagues at Aspect have been extremely supportive with understanding the nature of my apprenticeship and always take the time to answer any questions I may have!

What have been your highlights on the journey so far?

I would say that completing my paralegal apprenticeship was a key milestone on my journey, as this helped me to decide whether to pursue a legal career. It has been really rewarding to reflect on my personal growth and what I have achieved since beginning my career at Aspect.

Also, collaborating with my colleagues has definitely been another highlight for me. Everyone at Aspect is friendly and I have been able to learn a lot from the skilled people I work with. I also joined Aspect’s Social Committee last year and enjoy arranging fun social events for the company!

Has your advice to others considering apprenticeships changed as you have progressed in your career here?

I will always advocate for those who are considering an apprenticeship to be open minded! Not only does an apprenticeship allow you to gain invaluable skills, but it also equips you with a great foundation for starting your career. My main advice would be to consider whether ‘learning on-the-job’ works for you. It is also important to mention that studying while working can be challenging, however in my opinion, the long-term benefits are worth it.