Solicitor traineeship numbers in Scotland continue to rise

According to a Law Society of Scotland report, the number of training contracts started in practice year 2015/16 was 549, representing an increase of two per cent on the previous practice year. This is the same percentage increase as the previous year on year comparison. This consistent increase in traineeships started, indicates “encouraging prospects” for Scotland’s future lawyers.

Eighty per cent of traineeships commenced in practice year 2015/2016, were in the central belt, an increase of five per cent on the previous year. It is notable that there was a 26 per cent drop in the number of traineeships in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire which might be linked to the difficulties experienced by the oil industry in this region.

The newly published statistics from the Law Society also show that:

Katie Wood, head of admissions at the Law Society of Scotland, said: “The society’s traineeship statistics are a useful resource for all those interested and involved in the legal profession. The latest set of results is encouraging for solicitors, trainees, students and the Law Society.

Those considering the next step in their legal career, in particular those thinking of doing the PEAT 1 Diploma in Professional Legal Practice or currently on the diploma and looking for a traineeship, should be encouraged by the latest figures.

“The number of training contracts continues to rise at a consistent pace year on year and there has been a very slight decrease in the number of Diploma students commencing their studies in 2016/2017. As such we would not anticipate an unmanageable mismatch between graduates and traineeships.

“One figure of concern is the 26 per cent drop in traineeships in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. It is a competitive marketplace and we would strongly encourage aspiring solicitors to continue to follow our careers advice on looking for a traineeship.

“It is also encouraging to see that 90 per cent of those admitted in the last year are now employed as solicitors and our advice for employers on taking on a trainee provides a factual look at what’s involved in providing traineeships along with an outline of opportunities and benefits – trainee contributions are not only financial; often they bring a range of new skills to the firms in which they are placed. Flexible traineeships, such as sharing a trainee with another firm or offering a part-time traineeship, are a good option for some firms. Again the Law Society is keen to support anyone interested in taking on a trainee and would encourage them to consult our website or get in touch with our Education, Training and Qualifications team.”

Trainee Statistics 2015/16