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How to write winning covering letters for law firms

targetjobs editorial team

Last updated: 24 Mar 2023, 17:42

When applying for a training contract or vacation scheme, your covering letter may be the first part of your application a law firm considers.

Your covering letter creates a powerful first impression, so make it easy for the recruiter to see that you have strong potential as a lawyer.

Many law graduate jobs at solicitors’ firms in the UK will ask you to apply for a training contract with a covering letter. Read this advice from recruiters at Slaughter and May, Cleary Gottlieb and Ince & Co, then follow our law cover letter template.

Some recruiters will want you to upload your covering letter as part of an online application form (such as Baker McKenzie and Jones Day), while others – usually smaller, high street law firms – will want you to send the letter alongside a CV (see our law CV example here ).

• Cover letter template: see our annotated law covering letter sample for more tips and format examples .

How to write a law cover letter tip #1: use the letter to explain why you want to be a solicitor at that particular law firm

A covering letter is a golden opportunity to explain your motivations for becoming a lawyer and for applying to that specific firm. ‘My advice is to use the cover letter to introduce yourself and to explain why you are applying to that firm,' says Janine Arnold, trainee recruitment manager at Slaughter and May . ‘Be sure to include any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.’

If you’re uploading a covering letter as part of a larger application form you should avoid repeating examples you’ve used to answer questions on the form. Give as broad a picture of your skills and experience as possible and only repeat something if you think it is particularly significant to that law firm. Your covering letter is an introduction to get the recruiter’s attention – a sample of your potential, if you like – not your overall application.

‘A well-written, succinct, persuasive covering letter crafted by an aspiring trainee solicitor who has really thought about the firm stands out,’ says Nichola Rowe, director of legal human resources at Cleary Gottlieb . ‘Ask yourself: what sets this firm apart from other law firms and how do my individual skills and experiences marry with that firm?’.

How to write a law cover letter tip #2: how long should it be?

A covering letter should be a maximum of one page, with a font size of 11 or 12. Slaughter and May ’s Janine Arnold agrees: ‘A lengthy covering letter is not necessary; aim for it to be no longer than one side of A4.' Remember that some firms will give a word count for the covering letter they want you to write as part of your application. It's important to stick to that word count. It shows that you can write succinctly and follow instructions.

Get the insights and skills you need to shape your career journey with Pathways. We’ll show you exactly what goes into a convincing cover letter, so you can give yourself the best chance of getting to the next stage of the application process.

How to write a law cover letter tip #3: the format law firms like

The best law cover letter examples have a clear structure, such as:

1. The introduction to your cover letter

Introduce yourself, explain what stage you are at in your degree course (including the university you’re attending), state that you are applying for a training contract and where you read about the law firm. This should only be a sentence or two.

2. A paragraph on why you want to work at that law firm

The second paragraph should cover why you want to be a solicitor and why you want to work for that law firm in particular. Highlight any experiences you’ve had that have convinced you that you want to be a solicitor, such as vacation schemes, open days or insight days. You can even mention mini-pupillages – it will impress graduate recruiters if you’ve put the effort into comparing the two sides of the legal profession, as long as you have good reasons for picking a career as a solicitor (this could come up at interview).

Make it clear why you want to work in the particular area of law that the firm focuses on. For example, if it’s a commercial firm you’ll want to draw on any work experience you’ve had at other commercial firms. Show off your research about the firm by explaining your interest in their main legal practice areas – don’t just say ‘I am interested in shipping law’, for example, but provide evidence of that interest.

You might also want to mention the firm’s training structure. Some firms will have compulsory seats, in which case you’ll need to show an interest in those areas. If you’ve chosen a firm that doesn’t have compulsory seats, or has no seat structure at all (such as Jones Day for example), then you could explain why this appeals to you above a more defined training contract structure.

3. A paragraph highlighting why you're a good fit for the law firm

Next, you need to pitch yourself to the recruiter. Make it clear that you are suited to a career as a solicitor: highlight achievements that show you have the competencies the firm has asked for. If the firm hasn’t specified exactly what it's looking for, see our article here on the skills most legal recruiters want from applicants. Don’t just say ‘I have good communication skills’ – you need to mention an achievement that hinged on your use of those skills.

4. The ending to your law covering letter

Close by referring the recruiter to your CV or application and stating your availability for interview(s) or assessment centre(s).

How to write a law cover letter tip #4: explain any extenuating circumstances

'Covering letters should also explain any mitigating circumstances relating to exam results and to address any questions that you may reasonably expect to arise from your application, such as any gaps in your CV,’ explains Janine.

How to write a law cover letter tip #5: proofread your cover letter before you hit ‘send’

Once you’ve put your covering letter together, don’t be tempted to rush it off. Ask friends, family and your university careers adviser to check it. ‘There is no good excuse for spelling errors, especially when you’re applying for a job that requires scrupulous attention to detail,’ points out a legal recruitment adviser at Ince & Co . ‘The number of applications we receive that contain errors is surprising. Your application is all we’ve got to go on, so you owe it to yourself to ensure it’s not let down by something so easily avoidable.’

Remember that law firms will be judging your ability to communicate professionally with clients on the professionalism of your covering letter – you’re making a pitch, just like you would do as a practising lawyer.

Legal recruiters at major law firms read through hundreds, if not thousands, of applications from aspiring trainee solicitors each year and will only spend a minute or so reading your covering letter. Some recruiters say that they make their decision paragraph by paragraph – if you haven't impressed upon them that you would be a good fit for their firm halfway through the cover letter, they might not even read the rest. Your covering letter creates a powerful first impression, so make it easy for the recruiter to see that you have strong potential as a solicitor by following the tips above.

In other news: Massive changes to the way solicitors qualify are on the horizon. Do you know how they will affect you? Find out here .

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Apprenticeship cover letter

Apprenticeships provide a viable alternative to university. If you've chosen to earn while you learn our apprenticeship cover letter example shows you how to impress with your application

Start by proving your attention to detail in your introduction. What do they call their apprenticeship programme? (Do they even use the word apprentice? Sometimes they can be called school leaver schemes). Are they asking you to apply for the whole apprenticeship programme, or do they want you to specify which specialism or track you're interested in?

Just like in any other application you'll need to tailor your letter to the company, even if you are applying for more than one apprenticeship and using a similar letter for each application. Use anything you know about the company to make your letter specific - have you seen a local project they are undertaking? Do they advertise locally or nationally? do they do any community work?

When applying for this route into work it's important to let the recruiter know that you have positively chosen an apprenticeship instead of university. You need to make sure that your letter gets across that you really want to work for the organisation. Look carefully at the company's website and pick something about them that appeals to you. This could be that they are long-established, a large multinational or a local, family firm.

Also don't be embarrassed about saying good things about yourself. It's not boasting, it's just letting them know why you'll be an asset to their company. This is no time to be modest. There's no need to lay it on thick, an accurate mention of your skills will be enough. There will be lots of applications for recruiters to read so you want to make it easy for them to find out about you.

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this cover letter template to help generate ideas and structure your own document but avoid copying and pasting. Your cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

Jo Yotan 54 The Close Nearton Herechester HC5 1CH [email protected] 07788 999000

Ms Geraldine Cranefeld Student recruitment manager International Engineering Engineering House XYZ Business Park Herechester HC7 4JP

5th May 2023

Dear Ms Cranefeld

2023 Engineering Degree Apprenticeship Programme

I would like to apply for your 2023 Engineering Degree Apprenticeship Programme and am attaching my CV. I would like to get a degree through combining practical, on-the-job learning with classroom experience and I am particularly interested in the Electronics Engineering Programme on offer.

Since completing my A-levels in maths, IT and physics, I have worked at Foodhouse Superstore, covering shifts as rostered. I have mainly worked in stock replenishment, helping out on other teams if needed, including customer service on tills and the shop floor.

I also have a Saturday job at a local car repair workshop. In the two years I have worked there, I have been involved in all aspects of car repair. Recently, I have taken on more of the electronic and diagnostic work, enabling me to use and improve my problem-solving skills.

I did my Year 10 work experience at a HVAC company, where I spent time on site with one of the field engineers and worked in the office to see how jobs are booked and scheduled. I was particularly fascinated by how heating and ventilation systems are planned in the design department.

My time management and organisation skills have helped me to combine schoolwork with my weekend job while also keeping up my sports. I am pleased that I helped my netball team win the cup at the same time as achieving good grades.

I am keen to work for International Engineering, as a local company which works across the UK and internationally. I would like to use my engineering training to work on your alternative energy projects, such as the collaborations with African nations to reduce the dependency on oil.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

(Sign your name here)

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• Learn more about cover letters .
• Discover more about apprenticeships .

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22 September 2023

Your Guide to Apprenticeship Cover Letters

A cover letter for an apprenticeship… NOOOOO!

It’s a massive blow. You’ve already put an unholy number of hours into your CV. You spent your weekend attacking, and being attacked by the application form. It has, in short, been a nightmare – and now they want a cover letter too.

Take a few deep breaths. Put the kettle on, and make a cup of tea. Then keep reading.

Writing a cover letter for an apprenticeship is a bit like getting in and out of tight trousers. It’s tricky. But with the help of this step-by-step guide, you’ll soon get the hang of it.

• Why apprenticeship cover letters are important

How to write a cover letter for an apprenticeship

Example cover letter, template for an apprenticeship cover letter, why apprenticeship cover letters are important….

A cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies a CV, outlining who you are, and why you think you’re the right person for the job.

The fundamental aim of an apprenticeship cover letter is to persuade a recruiter to read your CV , and eventually invite you to a face-to-face interview.

The best advice we can give you is to write a UNIQUE cover letter for every apprenticeship you apply to. It’s fine to start off with a master copy or template, but employers will smell a generic cover letter a mile off.

• Your apprenticeship cover letter should be no longer than one side of A4
• Tailor the content to the specific role you’re applying for
• Avoid buzzwords and cliches , e.g. describing yourself as ‘always giving 110%’ or ‘dynamic’
• Triple-check your spelling and grammar before submitting.

Step 1: Dear Barbara,

The opening address of an apprenticeship cover letter is crucial. The crowd can turn against you after just three words. It’s a savage, savage sport.

Avoid writing ‘ Dear Sir/Madam ‘ or ‘ To whom it may concern ’. This gives the impression you are sending 50 CVs to 50 different employers. Barbara will not be impressed, and she might not even read your application.

Addressing your cover letter to the name of the person who will read it  will show you’ve done your research. If you’re unsure who you’re writing to, contact the company and ask. And if you don’t hear back, go with ‘ Dear Hiring Manager ’.

Step 2: Introduction

Start by specifying what position you are applying for , and where you found the vacancy.

Employers are usually hiring for multiple positions at the same time. So you want to make sure you’re being considered for the right role. Start with this…

‘I am writing to apply for the engineering apprenticeship with GSK, as advertised on RateMyApprenticeship.co.uk. Please find my CV enclosed. ‘

• School Leaver CVs
• School Leaver CV Template
• Apprenticeship Application Forms

Step 3: Company research

Now that they know why you are writing to them, it’s time to explain to the recruiter why you are interested in their apprenticeship.

Before you do anything else, do your research on the company. What makes them tick? What social issues do they care about? What qualities do they look for in employees?

The more your cover letter aligns with what they want, the better your chances of progressing to the next stage. Here’s a list of areas to focus your research on…

• Origins of the company
• Their vision and values
• Background of directors/the manager of the team you’re applying to
• Has the company been in the news recently?
• Any major projects the company has been involved in

If you want to find out more about the specific role you’re applying for, have a look through the 1000s of apprentice-written reviews on RateMyApprenticeship.co.uk.

Now, return to your cover letter and write a short paragraph that explains why you want to do the apprenticeship and, more specifically, why you want to do it with this company.

For example:

‘I was particularly drawn to an apprenticeship at Vodafone after discovering the groundbreaking projects I could get involved with; including making the UK’s first-ever 5G holographic call. My aptitude for problem-solving, combined with a desire to drive real change in the world, makes me a perfect candidate for this role. ‘

Here, you have demonstrated that you know and understand the vision and values of the company.

What’s more, you have declared an interest in helping the company achieve its mission.

Onto the next section. This has been brilliant so far. A triumph.

Step 4: Experience and qualifications

You’re on a roll, so it’s time to show how your unique skills, qualifications and experiences make you the dream candidate for this apprenticeship.

The trick is to keep this section as relevant as possible to the role you’re applying for. So if you’re applying for a Catering Apprenticeship and you work part-time in Lidl’s bakery or have completed an online cooking course, that’s cover letter GOLD.

If you don’t have any experience in the world of work, instead focus on any modules you’ve studied at school or college that inspired you to consider this career path.

Step 5: ‘I’d love an interview’

The difficult bit is over now. There is nothing left but a final flourish, in which you end the cover letter. It’s hard to trip up here.

In a couple of sentences, thank the recruiter for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for attending an interview.

‘Thank you very much for considering my application. I would enjoy the opportunity to interview so that we can discuss the apprenticeship programme in more detail. ‘

Step 6: So long, farewell

If you started the letter with a personal name, like Barbara, end your apprenticeship cover letter with Yours Sincerely . Or, if you didn’t manage to find Barbara’s name, Yours Faithfully .

And that’s it! You’ve finished writing your apprenticeship cover letter. It’s biscuit tin time.

Using the examples from each step in this guide, we’ve put together an example cover letter for an Engineering Apprenticeship.

Dear Barbara Smith,

I am writing to apply for the engineering apprenticeship with GSK, as advertised on RateMyApprenticeship.co.uk. Please find my CV enclosed.

I am particularly interested in the engineering apprenticeship offered by GSK because of the programme’s focus on chemical engineering. GSK’s devotion to the research and development of existing, but also new medicines, aligns with my own desire to contribute to the creation of new medical practices. I see from the recent news coverage that GSK is focusing on local COPD care, and I feel that my work experience in my local hospital makes me an ideal candidate for this apprenticeship.

As my CV describes, my three years working at Carlos’ Cakes have given me teamwork skills, as well as the ability to work confidently as an individual. I am a conscientious and committed student, on course to achieve three A-Levels. My focus on the three sciences, particularly biology, has provided a groundwork of knowledge that will be needed for this apprenticeship. I have proficient skills using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel, as well as the desired experience with Photoshop software.

Thank you for considering my application, I would enjoy the opportunity to interview so that we can discuss the apprenticeship programme in greater detail.

Yours Sincerely,

Before you go…

Before you return to The Sims , here are TWO final things to remember when writing a cover letter for an apprenticeship:

• If an online apprenticeship application asks you to write a cover letter in a text box, write it in a Microsoft Word document (or equivalent) first, then copy and paste it in. This way, you can check your spelling and grammar before sending off the cover letter and save it to your device.
• If you are asked to email your CV and cover letter, write your name and the title of the apprenticeship you are applying for in the subject line.

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Written by Louise

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Apprenticeship cover letter: 6-step structure for success

Your cover letter accompanies your CV when you’re applying for an apprenticeship and needs to do three important things.

Firstly, it needs to act as your introduction to the recruiter or employer. Secondly, it needs to help you begin building rapport with them. Finally, it needs to encourage them to read on and open your CV.

For this reason, you need to make sure you’re getting the format and content of your cover letter perfect. To help you get it right, we’ve put together a 6-step guide to writing an apprenticeship killer cover letter — check it out below:

1. Begin by addressing the recipient

Where possible, your cover letter should address the recipient by name. This is the best way to start building rapport with them and to show that you have a genuine interest in their opportunity.

You’ll need to use your detective skills to find out the name of the recruiter/employer and there are several ways you can do this. First, check if their name or email appears on the job advert. No luck? Check the company website and see if there’s a ‘meet the team’ style page — if there’s a HR, hiring manager or recruitment person there, you could use their name. If you still haven’t found a name, head to the company LinkedIn profile to do some further digging.

However, if you do your research and can’t find their name, don’t panic! Simply start your letter with ‘hello’ or perhaps a ‘hi’ if you’re including this in the body of an email. Try to avoid using ‘dear sir or madam’ as, nowadays, it comes across as rather impersonal and outdated.

2. Follow up with a friendly greeting

It’s important to be aware that your cover letter will be read by a real person, so you don’t want it to come across as rigid or stuffy.

So, next, show that you’re personable and friendly with a greeting — something like ‘I hope you’re well’ is the perfect way to start off.

3. Let them know which apprenticeship you're applying for

Remember, some recruiters/employers might be hiring for multiple vacancies, so you need to tell them specifically what apprenticeship you’re applying for.

It’s also a nice idea to let them know where you found their vacancy in the first place. For example:

‘I would like to apply for {name of apprenticeship} as advertised on {name of website}.’

Explaining why you’re interested in this apprenticeship is a good way to stand out from the crowd, so try to add a couple of sentences about how your interests and career goals align with the role, for example:

I’m particularly interested in working for your company as you stress the importance of social media marketing and blogging within the role. I have a keen interest in digital marketing and have recently set up my own blog which already achieves 500 visitors per month. I’ve also recently completed the Google Digital Garage course in order to develop my skills.

4. Demonstrate why you're suitable for the role

Next up, the main body of your cover letter needs to explain why you’re a suitable candidate for the apprenticeship you’re applying for.

Scan through the job description and pick out the key requirements and skills that you possess. Then, give a brief example of how you’ve used these skills. This helps the reader to quickly identify that you’re a good fit for the position.

For example, if the employer is looking for someone with strong written communication skills who is capable of writing reports, you might say:

‘During my time at college, I regularly contributed to the student newsletter. This voluntary position required great attention to detail in writing and editing. Paired with my grade B in English at GCSE, I’m now a confident writer.’

Or, perhaps they’re looking for applicants with customer service skills. In this case, you might say:

‘Having held numerous part-time retail jobs, I’ve assisted all types of customers in all types of settings. I’ve quickly learnt the importance of exceeding each customer’s expectations and how to solve their problems and queries professionally, quickly and effectively.’

You should also list any other important skills that you have, your most relevant qualifications and experience and give them some information about your current situation. For example:

‘I’m a recent school leaver’ or ‘I’m currently working in a similar role and looking to bolster my skill set.’

5. Showcase your achievements

Showcasing your achievements is something you need to do in both your cover letter and CV. But as your cover letter is only short, it’s best to choose your biggest and most relevant achievement.

Depending on your level of experience, this could be from school, an extra-curricular activity or previous roles. You might have achieved top grades in a relevant subject during your time in education, or if you’re more experienced, you might have increased sales for your employer or received some impressive feedback. For example:

‘In my final year of school, I was awarded Best Science Student of the Term’ or ‘In my part-time café job, I received a personal recommendation from a regular customer, due to my friendly and professional customer service.’

6. End with a professional sign off

Finally, you’ll need to sign off in a professional but friendly manner. Use terms like ‘thank you for your time’, ‘kind regards’ or ‘looking forward to hearing from you’.

If you’re sending an email, add a formal email signature to the bottom to look more professional. This should include your full name, phone number and email address.

Structure your cover letter for success

We understand that writing a cover letter can feel daunting, particularly when you’ve never written one before or really want the role!

By following the six steps above, you can put together a strong, personable cover letter that will sell your skills and land you an apprenticeship in no time.

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The 5 Rs model can help you pull together a great application. Most importantly the actual writing of CVs, cover letters and application forms, comes in at STEP 4, meaning there are 3 steps to take before you even start on that application!

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Looking to ace your application for an apprenticeship but staring at a blank page and wondering where to start?

No worries! We’ve got a few tips to help you get through it.

What is a cover letter?

First up, you’re probably wondering why a cover letter needs to be included with your apprenticeship application. Surely everything should just be explained in your CV?

Not necessarily, because your CV should be factual and concise – no rambling allowed!

Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to let your personality shine through. Use this opportunity to explore the reasons why you would love to work with the company you’re applying for (this shouldn’t be a copy-and-paste job to all). How do you think you’d make a great addition to an existing or new type of apprenticeship scheme they are offering?

Use your cover letter to sell why you’re the best person for the job. Explain why they shouldn’t miss out on your skills and experience. Tell them what your hopes are for your future in the industry.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure you don’t duplicate anything written on your CV – nobody wants to read the same thing twice.

Employers are very busy people, many running their own businesses, so their time is precious, and they’ll easily become disinterested if you aren’t straight to the point.

Keep all this in mind when structuring your cover letter:

There’s no one-size-fits-all for writing a great apprenticeship cover letter. Do your research and make sure each one you write is tweaked on a case-by-case basis – don’t reuse the same one!

• Avoid buzzwords and cliches – be authentic.
• Identify your unique selling points (USP’s).
• Include examples if you have any.
• Don’t reuse the same cover letter – tailor the content to each role.
• Proofread two or three times before sending.

What to include in an apprenticeship cover letter?

Think of the cover letter as your first interview for the job. What do you want the employer to know from the very beginning?

To give you an idea of how it should be structured, with a bit of help from Prospects.ac.uk, we’ve produced this mini guide below.

Again, this is only a suggestion, so make sure you add your own creative flair!

The first Paragraph

• This should be your opening statement.
• Set the scene.
• Who are you addressing?
• State the role you’re applying for and the date you’re available to start.

Second paragraph

• List your skills and experience that are relevant to the role.
• Include examples of how you meet the specific requirements of the role or how you expect your skills to benefit the company as you learn and grow.

Third paragraph

• Showcase that you know all about them but highlighting some research or facts you’ve discovered about the company.
• Let them know why you’d love to work for them and what first attracted you to the position.
• Reaffirm what you can offer their company.

Final paragraph

• Reiterate your interest and why you should get the job.
• Mention any unavailable dates for interview if needed.

How long should a cover letter be?

If we could give you one piece of advice, it’d be: Don’t waffle. Your cover letter shouldn’t be pages long, any employer will give up reading after the first page.

Your cover letter shouldn’t be any longer than three or four paragraphs – and definitely no longer than a side of A4.

Example cover letter

To help you get started, we’ve pulled together an example cover letter below.

Dear [First Name] [Surname] ,

I am writing to apply for the role of [apprenticeship role] at [company name] . Please find my CV enclosed with relevant details of my experience and qualifications to date.

I am particularly interested in [apprenticeship role] offered by your company, [list the reasons your skills fit the job requirements] . I feel that my previous experience in [list an example of relevant experience and why it would help in the role] .

As you can see from my CV, I have a keen interest in [explain your interests related to the job role] . I can see your company holds high values in [do a bit of research – this can then be tailored to how you see it working best, i.e. Do you like the company’s ethos? Do you like how they position themselves in the market? Do you like how they generate brand awareness] . I believe the skills I can bring to the table are [list relevant skills you can offer them and how it could benefit the role] .

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. 

Yours sincerely/faithfully ,

Where can you apply for apprentice jobs?

So now you’re feeling confident that you can master the basics, where can you find apprenticeship jobs?

There are hundreds of different apprenticeships to choose from and finding an existing or new apprenticeship scheme in your area that fits your interests can feel a bit daunting. The first step is doing your research before narrowing down your interests and the type of apprenticeship you’d like to do.

See how you can use the Government’s ‘ Find an Apprenticeship ’ service to view the options.

You can also check out our Jobs Board to find an apprenticeship that’s perfect for you. 

Table of Contents

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The idea of taking on an apprentice may at first seem daunting for a business owner, but there’s no need for it to be that

7 tips that will help you nail any apprenticeship interview

Once you’ve decided that an apprenticeship is the right route for you, you’ll need to apply for the apprenticeship and then prepare for an interview if

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How to write a cover letter for an apprenticeship?

Cover letters or covering letters are what you include with your CV when applying for an apprenticeship . Think of them as the story of your CV – you will expand on the shorter points and bullet lists of your skills and show how your experience makes you the perfect fit for the role. 

If you have never written one before, a cover letter can feel like a difficult task. But as long as you stick to a few simple rules there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to write a strong cover letter that really sells you to a prospective employer.

How long should an apprenticeship cover letter be?

The ideal length of a cover or covering letter is no more than one side of an A4 page – any longer and you risk rambling. Any shorter and you won’t have covered enough of your skills and experience or explained why you should get the job. Four paragraphs is a good length.

Cover letter basics

Write a new letter for each application.

It can be tempting to copy and paste your way through numerous applications, but each letter should be unique. After all, each role is different, as is each company you apply to. It’s ok to have similar points and explanations for skills, but each letter you write should feel distinct from one another.

It’s ok to use a template as a starting point

You can find numerous templates online to help guide you. As long as you aren’t copying someone else’s work it’s ok to use one. Details like where to include the date, who you are sending the letter to and your contact details are all important, and a template will show you this. There’s a lot of variety out there, so make sure whichever you choose it is clear and easy to read – not one big block of text.

Address it to a named person

One of the ways you can make a good impression is by addressing your letter to a named individual. It shows that you have done some research about the company, and you are serious about the application. You can easily find out the name of the person you need to write to by looking at the company website, emailing or phoning the company.

Paragraph 1: The 'Why'

Your opening paragraph is where you get the reader’s attention. Explain WHY you are writing to the company and WHY you are applying for the job. You can include information here relating to where you saw the job opportunity e.g. ‘I am writing regarding your advertisement for a construction apprentice on the Talentview website’.

Paragraph 2: Sell yourself

Sell, sell, sell! This is your opportunity to tell the prospective employer why you should get the job. What is it about you – your experience, skills or interests – that makes you the perfect candidate? What can you offer them? You can make reference to your CV here, by selecting a few strengths or achievements mentioned and expanding on them.

Paragraph 3: What you know about the company

Show that you have done your research about the company – its history, values and the work it does. If it is a construction company, you could make reference to some of the projects it has been involved in, and what excites or interests you about working for the company. 

Paragraph 4: Call to action

This is the final paragraph and your last chance to impress, so it’s important to get it right. 

The end of the letter is your chance to summarise what you would bring to the job. You can finish by thanking the recipient for their time reading the letter, and then providing a ‘call to action’. This could be by asking for a meeting or a phone call to discuss the position further. Sign off your letter formally. It is best practice to use ‘yours sincerely’ if you have addressed the letter to a named person, and ‘yours faithfully’ if you have addressed it to ‘Sir/Madam’.

Check your letter

Read your letter again in a few hours time or the following day. There will be some changes you will want to make. Go back to it a couple of times until you are happy with it.

Have more than one person check your cover letter if possible. Someone who works in a similar industry would be ideal, but a friend or relative who will give you honest feedback is also helpful. Read it out loud, too, because this will help you to hear clunky or awkward sentences or highlight missing words and spelling errors.

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Solicitor Apprenticeships: Latest Opportunities and Top Tips

A range of law firms now offer solicitor apprenticeships as a route through which aspiring lawyers in England and Wales can qualify.

Aspiring solicitors in England and Wales are becoming increasingly interested in the solicitor apprenticeship route that more and more top law firms are offering in 2024.

What is a solicitor apprenticeship?

Solicitor apprenticeships are a relatively new way to qualify as a solicitor (a type of lawyer) in England and Wales.

The traditional route involved going to university to study a qualifying law degree like the LLB (or later moving from a non-law degree to law via a conversion course like the PGDL ). This would come before actually starting work at a law firm as a trainee solicitor (for two years, before qualifying as an associate at the firm – depending on retention rates ).

In recent years, however, law firms (note that this is not an option for barristers yet, although chambers are reportedly considering the move in the near future) have decided to embrace an apprenticeship route alternative. The details change from one provider (not always law firms – you could qualify in-house , for example) to the next. However, usually you’re looking at applying for these apprenticeships at the end of A Level study , then spending 5-6 years (around the same length of time as if you pursued the traditional route) as a solicitor apprentice. 

Your time is generally split between studying (obtaining the same qualifications – a law degree, LPC / SQE , etc) and gaining valuable hands-on experience within the organisation. You’re likely to be handed similar introductory-level work as that of trainees – for example legal research, drafting attendance notes, bundling, editing contracts, etc (but not yet moving into directing overall case strategy, for example). 

There are a number of skills that you are likely to need as a solicitor apprentice. Naturally, the same usual skills required of lawyers are needed – for example strong critical thinking abilities for analysing documents, or teamwork skills for collaborating on larger projects with co-workers.

However, solicitor apprenticeships need to be especially good at balancing multiple projects (time management) given their need to split their workload between studying and working. This can cause challenging work-life balance in some cases, though many solicitor apprentices are able to overcome this issue with good planning.

Salaries for solicitor apprentices vary widely between organisations. While the minimum wage that must be offered to apprentices is fairly low, most law firms in particular will pay far more than this, especially in London (though regional salaries are still relatively strong). Top city firms like Allen & Overy start their apprentices on £25,000, while smaller national firms are offering in the region of £20,000 – just to give you a rough idea.

As previously touched on, a range of different organisations offer solicitor apprenticeships. The most obvious starting point is looking at law firms (which traditionally offer training contracts too). A more detailed list can be found below, including a range of examples.

It is worth noting, however, that in-house legal teams also provide solicitor apprenticeships. Some of these legal apprentices go on to become legal influencers and detail their journeys, such as Holly Moore . She is an ITV legal apprentice who became the first person to qualify in-house through that route. Finally, some governmental departments and non-profit/charity bodies will also offer solicitor apprenticeship programs from time to time.

What is the solicitor apprenticeship application process?

The application process for a solicitor apprenticeship often follows fairly similar routes to the process required for vacation schemes and training contracts . The process does vary widely between providers, but some of the common elements (along with our top tips) are outlined below.

The application form is a common first stage. You’ll be looking to demonstrate strong academic history (any work experience is a plus, but at this early stage in your career there is an understanding that you’re unlikely to have a huge CV ). The key at this stage is to think carefully about what you do have and make explicit links between yourself and the organisation you’re targeting.

Common questions might include ‘why do you want to be a solicitor?’, or ‘why are you suited to this organisation?’. Try to give genuine answers while also going into detail, drawing upon tangible reasons for your answers (for example, citing specific cases that the firm have worked on).

There may also be a stage involving tests. These could be critical thinking tests like the Watson Glaser , or a situational judgement test ( SJT ). Generally speaking (for both), you want to try as many practice tests as possible, take your time in reading the questions and answers, and contextualise all the decisions you are making within the target organisation.

Finally, you are likely to encounter an interview (sometimes a group of interviews – known as an assessment centre). These may include tests of your commercial awareness (you should try to develop your knowledge of technical terminology related to your target organisation’s practice area – if applying for a governmental solicitor apprenticeship, do you know what a judicial review is? If applying for a Magic Circle solicitor apprenticeship, do you know what private equity is?). Alternatively, there could be more of the general questions (e.g. ‘why do you want to be a solicitor?’) that you encountered at application form stage. For interviews, besides the obvious need to give genuine and detailed answers, you should focus on projecting a friendly, confident outlook, and engaging well with your interviewers.

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Which law firms offer solicitor apprenticeships in 2024?

If you’re set on a solicitor apprenticeship within a law firm, there are a huge range of options to consider. This is not an exhaustive list, but we’ve attempted to cover a range of big names from a variety of different firm types (Magic Circle, elite US , Silver Circle , boutique, etc) here:

• Allen & Overy
• Eversheds Sutherland
• Irwin Mitchell
• Norton Rose Fulbright
• Pinsent Masons
• DAC Beachcroft
• Charles Russell Speechly
• Hogan Lovells
• Mischon de Reya

How can I learn more about solicitor apprenticeships in 2024?

Many solicitor apprentices document their journeys on social media – this can be a great place to start. We already mentioned Holly Moore above, but other ‘lawfluencers’ like Maia Crockford (another solicitor apprentice, but within a law firm) similarly shed a more genuine light on the experience – watch our exclusive interview with Maia here . 

The Lawyer Portal also hosts regular events discussing the upcoming opportunities in this space. On February 6 th we’ll be hosting a webinar with top law firm Charles Russell Speechly, where the discussion will be around everything ‘solicitor apprentice’.

Key Takeaways

In short, solicitor apprenticeships are an excellent alternative qualification route which promises to offer greater flexibility (and also enhanced social mobility ) when qualifying within the legal industry. In 2024, the number (and range) of providers is growing at a truly unprecedented rate – be sure to keep an eye out for all the latest opportunities.

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Solicitor Apprenticeship

Earn whilst you learn with the solicitor apprenticeship programme.

If you are interested in a career in law, but university is not for you, consider a legal apprenticeship.

Our legal apprenticeships are aimed at school leavers who have completed A Levels or equivalent and want a work-based pathway in to the legal profession. Providing you with a practical insight in to the legal sector, and with hands on experience from day one, you could be qualified as a Solicitor in 6 years, the same time it takes to complete the traditional route to qualification.

How it works

You will start your Apprenticeship in September. Your training will take place with with a regulated provider and all tuition fees will be paid for. All learning materials are provided.

For the first 5 years of the apprenticeship you will work towards an LLB (Hons) in Law and Legal Practice.  The final year is spent working towards the SQE.

For 4 days a week you will be working with one of our teams, learning initially about the business and then law and legal practice whilst gaining competence in legal skills, commercial skills and professional conduct. You will be released on the fifth day to study toward your formal legal qualifications.

By the end of the apprenticeship you will have completed Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship, obtained a law degree and qualified as a Solicitor.

We have two vacancies; one in our Head Office in Bury , Lancashire, and one in our Commercial Office in Gadbrook Park , Northwich.

You will earn a starting salary of £18,000 which will increase as you progress through the programme.

You will also receive a range of employee benefits .

The application process

If you would like to apply for our Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme, please complete the online application form.

Successful applicants will be asked to come in for an initial first interview, and if that goes well, you will be asked back for a second interview which will involve giving a short talk on a topic provided to you in advance.

Tips for applicants:

• Research our Firm and the apprenticeship scheme
• Research the specific legal areas the Firm specialises in and consider which interest you the most
• Be ready to tell us why you want an apprenticeship with us
• Consider what skills you have and how they may be beneficial as a Solicitor
• And most importantly, be yourself!

Requirements

5 GCSEs, including maths and English, grade 4 or above, or equivalent.

3 A levels (or equivalent), grades C or above.

We appreciate you may not yet have your A Level results. Please include your predicted results on the application form.

As an Apprentice you have employed status, and therefore you must have the right to permanently live and work in the UK.  Apprenticeships are not covered by student visas.

What we are looking for

We are looking for applicants with potential and who have a passion for law.

Applicants should have:

• Attention to detail
• Individuality
• Drive and innovation
• Commercial awareness
• Common sense
• A proven academic record

Applicants should be:

• Determined and hard working
• Team players with good interpersonal skills
• Strong communicators
• Able to follow instructions
• Able to accept responsibility

Frequently asked questions on our Apprenticeship Scheme

Who can become an apprentice.

Our Apprenticeship is aimed at students who want to move in to a job after completing their A Levels or equivalent whilst still working towards a qualification.

I already have a degree. Can I still apply?

The Apprenticeship is part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer. We aim to give opportunities to a diverse range of candidates and as such, our Solicitor Apprenticeship is not open to people who already have a degree, or have been working in the legal sector for a period of time.

Do I have to have studied A Level law to become a solicitor apprentice?

No, A Level law is not essential. The most important thing is to study subject that you find interesting and which you enjoy to give yourself the best chance to achieve good grades.

Is there any difference between someone who has qualified as Solicitor through the Apprenticeship route and someone who has attending university and qualified through the traditional route?

Not at all. Whichever route you take, you will qualify as Solicitor and hold a Practising Certificate issued by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Will I be able to choose which team I work in?

Apprentices will be placed in departments that have a business need although we do consider each person’s preferences and where possible match people to their area of interest.

Will I learn about other aspects of working in a law firm, eg, Marketing and finance?

Yes, from day one you will be involved in all aspects of the Firm to ensure you have a good overview of law and business. You will be involved in business development and networking.

Will I be offered a job at the end of my Apprenticeship?

Whilst we cannot guarantee a qualified position, we are committed to guiding talented future lawyer to be the best they can, and seek to ensure that they thrive both professionally and personally. We look to recruit Apprentices who fit in with the culture and values of our Firm, with a view to them being part of the future of the business.

We will accept applications from students in their final year of college or 6th form, or those who are recently left.

Fill in the application form and send us your CV with a covering letter using the form.

We'll get in touch if we like what we see, asking you to come for an first interview

If that goes well, you'll be asked back for a second interview

Role applying for* —Please choose an option— University Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship

Cover letter*

CV Upload (PDF/DOC)*

I have completed the additional application form via the link provided.

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Solicitor apprenticeship.

The Solicitor Apprenticeship is a 6 year level 7 programme, which combines practical work-based learning with formal study towards an LLB (Hons) in Legal Practice at BPP University Law School (BPP). All of your tuition fees will be paid and you will earn a salary while you are training. You will gain valuable, real-life experience in a leading international legal practice, enhancing your commercial understanding and growing your confidence in a work environment. It is the ideal opportunity to benefit from an exciting new world of work and study while avoiding the costs usually associated with undertaking a degree.

You can read all you want about Osborne Clarke, but there’s simply no substitute for meeting us, either in person or virtually. Join us at one of our own events and enjoy the opportunity to get to know us, ask your questions and get some insight into life at Osborne Clarke.

Our Solicitor Apprenticeship programme is a 6 year level 7 programme, combining practical work-based learning with formal study towards an LLB (Hons) in Legal Practice at BPP University Law School (BPP). All of your tuition fees will be paid and you will earn a salary while you are training. You will gain valuable, real-life experience in a leading international legal practice, enhancing your commercial understanding and growing your confidence in a work environment.

We will be looking for 4 Solicitor Apprentices to join us in Bristol, 1 in Reading and 4 in London. The Solicitor Apprenticeship programme will start in September 2024.

BPP is an independent university dedicated to business and the professions. It combines innovative study content with real-world experience and insight from expert tutors, delivering the practical skills and industry knowledge to help students to excel in the workplace. As an apprentice you will spend 20% of your time (1 day per week) studying towards the LLB (Hons) in Legal Practice. You will study by blended learning, with attendance at ‘live’ online classes and regular face-to-face support classes at a BPP learning centre. You will also have access to a Virtual Learning Environment.

As you progress through your apprenticeship you will build a portfolio of the experience you have gained and the tasks you have completed in the workplace. You will spend time in Osborne Clarke’s main practice groups: Business Transactions (Corporate, Commercial); Projects, Real Estate and Finance; Litigation; and Advisory (Employment, Pensions, Incentives, Tax and Competition). The programme will be tailored to your individual needs and goals for qualification, and your responsibility will increase as appropriate throughout your training. To complete the apprenticeship and qualify as a Solicitor you will need to pass the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Exams).

These are comprised of SQE1: Functioning Knowledge Tests and SQE2: Standardised Practical Legal Skills Assessments. BPP will provide you with guidance and assistance to help you pass these assessments.

You will receive support and guidance from us throughout your whole apprenticeship. In each team you will have a dedicated line manager, and you will also be paired with a solicitor apprentice buddy to help you settle into life at Osborne Clarke. This is underpinned by our award-winning HR and career development programme. You will also benefit from a Student Manager and Personal Tutor at BPP. Your Student Manager is your dedicated point of contact at BPP throughout your apprenticeship, and their main role is to support you and monitor your progress in completing the requirements of the apprenticeship. Your Personal Tutor will meet with you when you attend face-to-face teaching sessions at BPP, and will assist you with compilation of your portfolio of workplace evidence and help you to identify how that evidence links to the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by the solicitor apprenticeship standard.

Yes, we offer 1-day virtual work experience placements to students in years 11, 12 and 13 who are considering a career as a lawyer. Please sign up through this  link .

We are running information events in all of our UK offices and virtually on the following days:

13 February 2024, 12.30 – Virtual 14 February 2024, 17.30 – London 15 February 2024, 17.30 – Bristol 20 February 2024, 17.30 – Reading

Our information events allow students and their parents/carers the opportunity to find out more about our programme and meet some of our Solicitor Apprentices, Partners and supervisors. If you'd like to attend one of these sessions please sign up here .

The starting salary for our solicitor apprentices is:

Bristol = £23,000 p.a. London = £27,000 p.a. Reading = £24,300 p.a.

Your salary will increase as you progress through the programme, and in your final 2 years you will be paid the same as the trainee solicitors in your location.

As well as strong academics (ABB at A-Level, predicted or obtained) we are looking for someone with the ambition and commitment to learn and succeed on our six year Solicitor Apprenticeship programme. You will also need excellent communication skills, a good eye for detail, the ability to follow instructions and to enjoy working as part of a team.

We are currently accepting applications for our September 2024 cohort. Please only complete one application for the location that you are most interested in using the links below. The deadline for receiving applications is 8 March 2024.

If your application is successful you will be invited to attend an assessment centre on one of the following dates – please be aware that these are the only dates available, and you will be required to attend in person.

Bristol – 2 April 2024

London – 3 and 4 April 2024

Reading – 8 April 2024

If you have questions that you’d like to ask about the apprenticeship please  email us  or call us on +44 117 917 3484.

What does the recruitment process involve?

Stage 1: The application form

The first step in the process is an online application form. This is your chance to tell us about yourself and why you’d like to join Osborne Clarke.

You will need to prepare a cover letter that outlines why you think the Solicitor Apprenticeship at Osborne Clarke is right for you. You should also showcase your skills and give us some insight into your motivations. We’ll be looking out for signs that you have all the qualities that make a great Osborne Clarke lawyer, so think about how you can evidence things like the ability to listen, learn and collaborate; a passion for client service; a genuine interest in the business environment; a problem-solving approach; and – of course - the drive and motivation to succeed.

You’ll be asked about your work experience – and this doesn’t only mean legal work experience. You will have developed different personal skills and attributes no matter the job or sector you’ve worked in, and we’re interested in how you think you would apply these to becoming a successful lawyer.

We’ll ask about your academic achievements, and strongly encourage you to opt into completing the Rare Contextual Recruitment System to allow added appreciation of the context in which these have been gained. You can read more about the CRS  here . There’s also space for you to explain any mitigating circumstances you’ve experienced, so please do share anything you feel to be important.

Completing a successful application will take time and a lot of research so give yourself enough space and don’t rush it.

Stage 2: Assessment Centre

If you’ve applied and have been invited to attend one of our assessment centres – congratulations! You’re through to the next round. The assessment centre consists of a few different elements including a group discussion, a partner interview and a verbal reasoning test (a test which assesses your verbal comprehension, reasoning and logic). There’s also an opportunity to network with current solicitor apprentices and hear about their experiences. All of this in combination will allow us to find out more about you, giving us insight on your commercial awareness and understanding, communication skills, ability to work in a team and your understanding of Osborne Clarke.

Be prepared

The more prepared you are, the calmer you’ll be – and the more you’ll enjoy and get something out of the day. So, we suggest reviewing your application submission and getting up to date on recent developments in the news. You can also prepare for the verbal reasoning test by completing a  practice test here . That said, try to avoid being ‘over-prepared’ – we also want you to show your ability to think on your feet.

Don’t forget to enjoy yourself

The assessment day provides an excellent opportunity to network, ask questions and get to know Osborne Clarke and your potential colleagues. Bring your curiosity, stay open-minded and remember to enjoy it too.

Our tips for submitting a strong application

Think about the bigger picture.

What makes you a great candidate, and how you might make that come across in your application form? Look beyond academia and work experience and make sure that you include information about your interests and hobbies – these are what make you an individual and will help you to stand out from the crowd. We want to get to know the person behind the application form.

We want to know what it is about Osborne Clarke that has encouraged you to apply, so do your research and use it to tailor your answers and bring your application to life.

Get the basics right

It sounds simple, but make sure that you complete all sections of the form. And use continuous prose throughout to show your writing style, tone, and fluency.

Keep it short and avoid cliché

Be succinct and use short sentences to ensure that your points are clear. Use straightforward language and avoid using buzzwords over used phrases such as ‘relish the opportunity’.

Check, check again

Attention to detail is key, so remember to double (or even triple) check your application before you submit it. And even better, get a fresh pair of eyes in the form of a friend or family member to read through your submission - they’re much more likely to spot any small mistakes.

Our locations

Bristol is a thriving city and one of the most vibrant legal centres outside of London. From our Bristol office we advise national and international clients, as well as the high-growth and entrepreneurial businesses that are putting the South West on the map. Our Bristol team includes some of our key corporate, commercial and litigation Partners, as well as specialist teams in areas like pensions, tax and residential development.

Our London office is in the heart of the City – ideally situated for the top-flight clients we advise. As you’d expect there’s a lot of M&A (we’re one of the top 10 firms for this in the City), capital markets and financial institutions work. But there’s much more to our London office than that. For example, we have one of the most highly regarded Real Estate teams in the square mile, our Tech, Media and Comms team is the go-to team for cutting edge tech companies and we excel in areas like International Arbitration.

The Reading office is home to a close-knit and growing team. With its own distinct, high profile client pool, the office is known for doing City work for leading names from its Thames Valley base. There's a strong technology focus (from start-ups to Big Tech) and the team's strong links to our Silicon Valley office mean that we advise many US clients making their entry to the UK market, as well as venture capitalists and private equity investors across all sectors, including telecoms, life sciences, infrastructure and energy & utilities.

UK Law Firm of the Year 2021

Awarded best law firm for partner approachability at the legal cheek awards, ranked in the times best law firms 2022, ranked in the top 10 european transformation law firms - the financial times, osborne clarke welcomes young people on social mobility business partnership virtual work experience programme.

Solicitor Apprenticeships at Osborne Clarke

Apprenticeship overview, does working and studying leave no time for a social life, is becoming an apprentice is the end of life as you know it, are solicitor apprentices given real legal work, do you receive a different qualification to university graduates, is an apprenticeship the easy route, dear legal profession – letter from a solicitor apprentice, national apprenticeship week 2023 - commercial awareness, 5 tips to ace your interviews at assessment centres, living my harvey specter dream at 19, sign up for our newsletter.

Legal Notice

Apprenticeship cover letter examples

An apprenticeship can be a great way to strengthen your skills and kickstart your career. The trouble is, these positions can be competitive.

So, in order to stand out, you need a persuasive application – and that includes an engaging and creative cover letter.

Not sure how to write a standout application? That’s OK, we can help. Check out our step-by-step guide and apprenticeship cover letter examples below to get started.

CV templates 

Apprenticeship cover letter example 1

Apprenticeship cover letter example 2

Apprenticeship cover letter example 3

The Apprenticeship cover letter examples above should give you a good idea of the type of content you need to include in your own cover letter, and how it should be structured.

But if you’re really looking to wow recruiters and get your CV in front of the very best employers, then check out our guidance on how to write your own effective cover letter below.

How to write an Apprenticeship cover letter

Here’s a simple process to write your own interview-winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

Type the content of your cover letter directly into the email you are sending, or if you are applying via a job board, directly into their messaging system.

The reason for doing this it to ensure that your cover letter gets seen instantly and you can start connecting with the recruiter as soon as they open your message.

If you attach your cover letter as a separate document, the recipient will have to open up the document, which will slow the process down, or make them less likely to even open your cover letter – which could mean your application gets skipped over.

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of *Type of Apprenticeship* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The bulk of your cover letter should be focused around highlighting your suitability for the job you are applying to.

Doing this will show the recruiter that you are suitable candidate and encourage them to open your CV.

The best way to do this, is by studying the job advert you are applying to, and find out what the most important skills and knowledge are.

Once you know the most important requirements, you then need to highlight your matching skills to the recruiter. In a few sentences, tell them exactly why you are a good fit for the job and what you can offer the company.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your cover letter, add a professional signature to the bottom, giving recruiters your vital contact information.

This not only gives various means of contacting you, it also looks really professional and shows that you know how to communicate in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Gerald Baker Senior Accountant 07887500404 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application email, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Apprenticeship cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Apprenticeship cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Apprenticeship cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Apprenticeship cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Hope you’re well. I am writing in relation to the Electrical Apprentice position at Mears Group as advertised on Glassdoor Jobs. As an individual with a genuine passion for electrical work and a strong desire to learn and grow in the field, I am eager to contribute to electrical projects while gaining hands on experience under the stewardship of experienced professionals.

I possess a HND in Electrical Engineering from Bradford College, where I gained foundational knowledge in electrical circuitry, wiring, troubleshooting, safety practices, and technical mathematics. I am a fast learner and can quickly grasp new concepts, while aiming to thrive in a collaborative environment and supporting the delivery of high-quality work according to project deadlines.

During my academic journey, I obtained “A” grades for all my subjects, helped an instructor install complex components for a client one day ahead of schedule, and received a commendation for resolving electrical-related problems when participating in school competitions and workshops.

I look forward to attending an interview and discussing my competencies in further detail. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards

James Goldstein ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good day Gary

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Apprentice Welder vacancy advertised by Severfield Group on LinkedIn. As an enthusiastic individual with a genuine passion for welding and a strong desire to build a successful career in the field, I am excited at prospect of contributing my skills and commitment to your establishment.

I have acquired foundational knowledge through a HND in Welding & Fabrication from Capital City College, as well as hands-on school project experience in MIG, TIG, and Stick techniques. I am focused on prioritising safety in all aspects of welding and following regulations to ensure a secure work environment for myself and others. As an apprentice, I would welcome the opportunity to absorb knowledge from seasoned personnel to be able to apply it effectively in practical settings.

Some achievements I contributed towards in seven projects include, completing 50 high-quality welds with 0% defects or rejections, and ensuring no accidents through maintaining an excellent safety record.

Enclosed is my CV for your review, and I look forward to discussing my competencies in further detail. Thank you for considering my application.

Matt Turner ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good afternoon, Shaun

I am excited to apply for the available Apprentice Mechanic position at Volkswagen UK. As a dedicated individual with a passion for automotive technology, I have the desire to contribute my mechanical aptitude to deliver success for your esteemed organisation.

With a HND in Motor Vehicle Engineering and hands-on workshop experience gained at Newark College, I possess the competencies necessary to check, diagnose, and repair various mechanical issues. My focus remains on providing excellent customer service, while partnering with team members in a stimulating and high-performing environment.

Some notable accomplishments at college include aiding in troubleshooting and resolving engine malfunctions faster than any other student, helping a mentor complete routine maintenance tasks for three clients two hours ahead of schedule, as well as receiving positive feedback from supervisors for producing exceptional work at all times.

I am confident that my career aspirations firmly align with your business goals. Please find my CV attached and thank you for considering me for the aforementioned role.

Robert Stokes ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Apprenticeship job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!