Paralegal Apprenticeship (Online and On Campus) - NALP Level 3

Our flexible, award-winning courses and apprenticeships are perfectly packaged in a blended learning format we call Online and On Campus, and delivered by approved NALP centres across the UK. So now you can choose how, when and where you want to study.

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Apprenticeship overview

The Paralegal Apprenticeship is at level 3 – equivalent to A-levels – and will equip apprentices with skills that can be directly applied in their roles.

This programme is aimed at school leavers who have the maturity to study law and possess good written English, paralegals or other current employees in administration or customer service who have the potential for development, and those who have already completed an intermediate apprenticeship.

This flexible apprenticeship is delivered in partnership with colleges and training providers across the UK and combines online learning with face-to-face lessons in the classroom, referred to as Online and On Campus. 

Using Mindful Education’s blended learning approach, the typical duration of this apprenticeship is 15 months, which includes 12 weeks for the End Point Assessment. 

Cover image for the NALP level 3 Online and On Campus Certificate for Paralegal Technicians course video, which shows a learner using her laptop.

What will I learn?

You will develop an understanding of legal matters and transactions, combining a hands-on approach with the academic knowledge required to be a successful paralegal.

Study method

This apprenticeship is delivered through our flexible Online and On Campus blended learning model.

Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop – meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace. Each lesson lasts around 45 minutes and is accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Exercises, interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further.

On campus, apprentices benefit from face-to-face classes at college with an experienced tutor. A combination of classroom-based lessons, group exercises and discussion encourage apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations.  This modern, flexible approach to apprenticeship training empowers learners, minimises disruption to employers, and delivers tangible results in the workplace.

Units of study

Apprentices will study the NALP Level 3 Certificate for Paralegal Technicians. This course covers a range of areas, including: 

  • Introduction to law for paralegals
  • Introduction to professional conduct for paralegals
  • Introduction to law of contract for paralegals 
  • Introduction to litigation and dispute resolution for paralegals

Competence element

In addition to the knowledge element, this apprenticeship also includes a competence element which covers the following: 

  • Ethics, professionalism and judgement
  • Technical legal practice
  • Managing themselves and their own work
  • Working with other people

How will I be assessed?

The Introduction to law for paralegals unit is assessed by a multiple-choice exam. All other units are assessed by a multiple-choice exam worth 80% and an assignment worth 20%. 

Apprentices must also pass the end-point assessment to achieve the apprenticeship certificate. The end-point assessment for the Paralegal Apprenticeship includes a professional discussion, project, and a presentation.

Entry requirements

This programme is aimed at:

  • School leavers with a minimum of three Cs at A-level who have the maturity to study law and possess good written English
  • Paralegals or other current employees in administration or customer service who have the potential for development
  • Those who have already completed an intermediate apprenticeship such as the Level 2 Apprenticeship in Legal Administration and have completed written exams at AS/A-level
  • All candidates must have five GCSE grades 9- (A*-C) including English and maths.

Progression

Upon successful completion of the Level 3 Certificate in Paralegal Practice, students can progress to the NALP Level 4 Certificate in Paralegal Practice.

80% of Mindful Education Online and On Campus learners complete their qualification with a merit or distinction.

Career opportunities

This apprenticeship provides a flexible and cost-effective route to a legal career without the requirement of a law degree.

Once fully qualified (Level 4 Diploma), paralegals can become fee earners for their firm or apply for a licence to practise in their own right (subject to strict eligibility criteria), making these qualifications a popular career progression route for legal secretaries.

Additional information

This course is free to apprentices, as the cost is paid by your employer. Large companies can fund the course using their apprenticeship levy. SMEs can access government funding to subsidise the cost by 95%.

NALP is a professional Membership Body for Paralegals. NALP encourages, promotes and develops the role and practice of the paralegal and represents the best interests of its members. You can find out more here

How to apply

Applications can be made via our partner colleges and training providers.

Search for your nearest provider here

If you are an employer or a training provider, please email our Employer Engagement team via: apprenticeships@mindful-education.co.uk

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