This week marks National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10 – 16 February)—a time to recognise the value apprentices bring to businesses, individuals, and the wider economy.

At Boodle Hatfield, we are proud to support emerging talent, providing hands-on experience alongside professional development opportunities. To celebrate, we spoke with James Baker, our Marketing and Business Development Apprentice, to hear about his journey, what drew him to an apprenticeship, and his experience at the firm so far.

What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship in marketing and business development?

The primary reason I chose to pursue an apprenticeship in this role, which I also mentioned during my interview, is because of its fast-paced and ever-changing nature. This position has reinforced my belief, as there are always exciting new things to learn and interesting people to interact with, especially at this firm.

Can you describe what a typical day looks like for you in your role?

To be completely transparent… no, I can’t! And that’s what I love most about this role. Each day presents a myriad of different tasks, often new ones I’ve never encountered before, providing invaluable experience. Typically, a day includes catching up with a BD team member, updating CRM system data, learning how to use and understand a new system/task, and completing client pitches, brochures, or flyers. In summary, our work is focused on maintaining business flow for solicitors, helping them win, retain, and please their clients through various channels and techniques.

‘Each day presents a myriad of different tasks.’

How has your apprenticeship helped you develop new skills and grow professionally?

Firstly, in reference to the previous question, the variety of work has significantly enhanced my adaptability and problem-solving skills in the short time I’ve been at the firm. Joining at just 18 years old, fresh out of school, I had much to learn about professional and workplace knowledge and etiquette. I believe this firm has been the ideal environment for my professional development, allowing me to acquire invaluable, life-long skills.

How would you describe the workplace culture at Boodle Hatfield?

If I had to choose one word to describe my experience, it would be ‘connected’. Since I joined, everyone has been incredibly friendly and accommodating. Before starting, I had the preconceived notion that working at a law firm would be quite strict and intimidating, but it couldn’t be more different. It truly feels like everyone at the firm is seen as equal, regardless of their roles, and you can genuinely be yourself.

‘Before starting, I had the preconceived notion that working at a law firm would be quite strict and intimidating, but it couldn’t be more different.’

How do you balance your studies with your work responsibilities?

Personally, I allocate specific time during the week to complete any apprenticeship learning or tasks. This approach helps to avoid disruption and organisational issues, as the BD team knows when I’m unavailable for work. Adhering to this schedule has been crucial in developing my time management skills, allowing me to balance work and learning effectively.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in professional services?

Take the leap. Especially for those in school, pursuing an apprenticeship can be daunting, as they are competitive, and the majority choose university, making it challenging not to follow the crowd. This reasoning can intimidate some, but I’m more than glad I put in the effort, as it has been immensely rewarding. I believe that regardless of your stage in life, an apprenticeship provides an impressive range of skills and experiences that would be difficult to find in any other programme.