Worried about your social life as a legal apprentice?
If you’re an A-Level student thinking about an apprenticeship, you might be wondering: will I still have a fun and active social life? I had the same questions. Here’s what I’ve experienced so far, in my first few months as a solicitor degree apprentice at Pinsent Masons and why I think you’ll love it…
Culture and Work-Life Balance
One of my biggest concerns was whether the apprenticeship route would mean sacrificing my social life, but I have found that at Pinsent Masons, everyone encourages a healthy work-life balance. Staying late at the office as an apprentice is strongly discouraged, and the culture is genuinely supportive of your time outside work. If you ever do need to work late, apprentices are entitled to overtime.
You’ll quickly find that your evenings and weekends are yours to enjoy. While you might not be out all night, every night like some university friends, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialise. Plus, you will have a disposable income to help you make the most of these opportunities, and you can save up for big events like trips and holidays.
Social Events at Pinsent Masons
From day one, I’ve been able to join a wide range of social activities at work. In my first few months, I have attended too many to list them all, but some of my favourites include:
- Pizza and painting in Leeds
- Gingerbread house making with clients
- Office and team Christmas parties
- Planning & Environment team away day
- Apprentice induction escape room
- City Century events
- Coffee catch-ups with colleagues
- Informal after-work drinks
I’ve also started organising events for the LGBT+ & Allies network and joined groups like the Female Futures Network and Social Mobility Champions Network.
Worried about fitting in? All socials are optional, and there really is something for everyone.
Making Friends Outside of Work
Relocating to Manchester for my apprenticeship was daunting, but it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I quickly made friends with my flatmates, and our building organises regular socials (like a weekly pub quiz). This move has helped me to develop my confidence and independence in ways I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.
Additionally, I have joined the LACE Network for apprentices in Manchester and attended their Escape Room event. I didn’t even have to go searching for this opportunity because the founder reached out to me to invite me. I think this perfectly reflects how friendly and welcoming the network is.
I’ve also joined a book club and made friends from all walks of life. I kept in touch with friends from back home for nights out, walks, and coffees. Manchester is full of opportunities to meet new people and try new things.
I also like my own space sometimes, and I like spending some evenings learning to play the guitar, drawing, reading or watching TV.
Honestly, I still have plenty of spare time after all of this and in the new year I would like to sign up for more group activities, like exercise classes and a Spanish conversation group. However, in my first few months I wanted to get settled in and try not to overwhelm myself with too many activities.
Other Apprentices’ Experiences
I’m not the only apprentice with a flourishing social life. Fellow first-year solicitor apprentice Zain has enjoyed everything from horseracing, to escape rooms, to black tie events and client roundtables. He’s also attended external events like City Century, mentoring groups, and apprentice circles – which are great for meeting people your own age.
Zain says:
“At Pinsent Masons I haven't seen a late day in the office. I think this is important to mention as many people have misconceptions that apprentices work long hours. My team protect my study day and understand I have university deadlines outside of work.”
Outside work, he stays active with the gym, Muay Thai Boxing, and five-a-side football. He also loves exploring new places to eat in Leeds with friends and family.
All other apprentices at Pinsent Masons have also attended some fun socials recently. Most notably, The Cube gameshow event and a social on a barge! Vario also host lots of social events across the offices that paralegal apprentices can attend like a monthly quiz, Christmas parties (which included mini golf), and Pizza and Painting.
Top Tips for Building Your Social Life as an Apprentice
- Say yes to work socials and networking events. You never know who you'll meet, and sometimes it's the ones you don't expect much of that end up being the ones you enjoy the most!
- Join apprentice or professional networks. They are welcoming and always keen for new members.
- Explore your city! Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and London all have endless clubs, classes, and activities.
- Keep in touch with old friends. Invite them to visit and show them around all the new places you have discovered.
- Try something new! Whether it's a sports club, exercise classes, community events, art classes, choirs, language groups, book clubs... you'll expand your horizons and meet new people.
Final Thoughts: University vs Apprenticeship Social Life
I understand firsthand how difficult the choice is between apprenticeships and university, and it’s natural to worry about missing out. However, in my experience (and those of my fellow apprentices) your social life can be just as fun, varied, and rewarding as any student’s. It’s all about what you make of it.
If you have any further questions, please email [email protected] to find out more.