Apprenticeships have been a part of life at WBD since 2014, with over 70 completions since then. This year, two of our current apprentices were spotlighted for their achievements:

• Becky Wood, Facilities Manager was awarded the Facilities Manager Apprentice of the Year by the University of Gloucestershire, 2025
• Katie Watson, Solicitor Apprentice was recognised as the North East’s top young apprentice by leading business publication, Insider, 2024.

We caught up with them to find out more.

Why did you decide to become an apprentice?

Becky – Throughout school and sixth form, I didn't excel in any particular subject, which made choosing a university course difficult. My strengths were in skills like organisation and communication, so an office-based apprenticeship appealed to me because this suited my skillset. I chose a Facilities Management apprenticeship due to its broad and varied nature.

Katie – During Sixth Form, I applied to universities, but my preference was to pursue an apprenticeship to combine academic learning with real-world experience. Working in a law firm while studying for my law degree seemed like the perfect opportunity to develop my knowledge in a practical, hands-on manner.

What are the benefits of an apprenticeship? What skills have you developed as part of your apprenticeship?

Becky – Throughout my apprenticeship, WBD exposed me to all areas of the sector, helping me decide where I fit in the industry. After completing my initial apprenticeship, I pursued a degree-level apprenticeship with Gloucester University. This path allowed me to earn a degree debt-free and suited my learning style. Linking classroom knowledge to real-world business applications enhanced my understanding and ability to improve processes within the firm. This year, I will complete my degree and have three years of experience as a Facilities Manager, significantly boosting my employability.

Katie – One of the biggest advantages is the ability to learn and grow in a professional environment. Starting in a law firm straight after A-levels was daunting, but I developed crucial skills, gained knowledge, and accessed opportunities I wouldn't have experienced otherwise. Being involved in high-value transactions early in my career accelerated my professional growth and confidence. I've honed my legal research, writing, communication, negotiation, and time-management skills.

Other benefits include earning a salary while studying, a clear pathway to employment, and access to mentorship from experienced professionals. I encourage anyone considering it to go for it!

What is next for you?

Becky – Looking ahead, I'm excited to use the knowledge and skills from my degree apprenticeship to take on more responsibilities. The procurement elements of my degree will enable me to manage firm-wide contracts more strategically, improving efficiency and sustainability. There are also plenty of options for continued learning too.

Katie – In September, I'll start the fifth year of my apprenticeship. During the last two years, I’ll join a new team every six months, gaining experience in different areas of law while preparing for my final exams, the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations, to qualify as a solicitor.