We are delighted and proud to share an article below from St Michael’s College Enniskillen reporting on the career progress of our colleague Shay Maguire –
We are delighted to share the success of former pupil Shay Maguire, who is currently studying for his Law Degree Apprenticeship LLB (Hons) at Ulster University while working with O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors in Belfast.
The Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Law is still a developing pathway in Northern Ireland, making entry highly competitive. It’s fantastic to see Shay secure a place on such a sought after programme and thrive in both his academic and professional roles.
We are incredibly proud of Shay and wish him continued success as he builds his future career in law.
What made you choose the apprenticeship pathway?
I have always had a strong interest in pursuing a career in law. Completing a successful work placement from school, in a solicitor’s firm confirmed this for me, as it gave me valuable insight into the day-to-day reality of the profession. Following this, I secured a summer job with the same firm, which further reinforced my desire to pursue a legal career and made me realise that I would thrive in an environment where I could learn on the job. Law degree apprenticeships are still very new in Northern Ireland, and my intake year was only the second year they were running. Opportunities were limited and highly sought after, and no law firms in Fermanagh were offering the apprenticeship pathway, which is why I moved to Belfast to pursue this opportunity. I was fortunate to be offered two pathways to study law. I firstly applied through UCAS to study a full-time Law Degree LLB (Hons) at university and received an offer. Alongside this, I then applied for a Law Degree Apprenticeship LLB (Hons) with a law firm in Belfast. I was successful in the apprenticeship interview, and as it had always been my preferred route, I immediately accepted the job offer. The apprenticeship pathway offers the ideal combination of earning while learning. It allows me to develop practical legal skills under the guidance of experienced solicitors while working towards a law degree, without the financial burden associated with the traditional university route. The Higher Level Apprenticeship enables me to combine academic learning with hands-on experience from the very beginning. Applying knowledge in a real legal setting reinforces my understanding and makes my studies far more meaningful. Financially, the apprenticeship provides security: I earn a salary while my university fees are funded, avoiding student debt and making the pathway feel achievable. I am also motivated by the early responsibility and clear career progression this route offers. Working in a busy law firm keeps me engaged and confident, while learning daily from supportive and highly respected colleagues. Gaining practical experience, qualifications, and professional contacts simultaneously makes me feel well-prepared for a future career in law.
Can you describe what a typical working week looks like?
A typical working week for me as a legal apprentice is divided between university study and the workplace. I attend Ulster University one day a week, where I focus on the academic elements of my law degree, and spend the remaining four days working in the office. During the week, I handle a variety of tasks that provide genuine responsibility. I support solicitors with various administrative and legal tasks including managing client files, transcribing dictations into formal documents, preparing court briefs, and compiling trial bundles. This balance between studying and working allows me to immediately apply the legal knowledge I gain at university to real cases, reinforcing my understanding and practical skills. While the apprenticeship route is demanding, it is extremely rewarding and has helped me develop confidence, organisational skills, and a clear understanding of how a law firm operates on a day-to-day basis.
What do you think are the key benefits of a Higher Learning Apprenticeship?
One of the biggest benefits of a Higher Level Apprenticeship is the opportunity to combine academic study with real-world experience. Rather than learning theory in isolation, I am able to apply it immediately in a professional environment, which significantly improves my understanding and confidence. Another major advantage is the financial support the apprenticeship provides. I earn a salary while studying, allowing me to achieve a degree without accumulating the student debt often associated with the traditional university route. Higher Level Apprenticeships offer real responsibility from the outset. Being trusted with meaningful tasks allows me to develop key professional skills such as communication, time management and problem-solving much earlier than many students following a full-time academic route. Alongside this, there is a clear sense of progression, as I gain valuable work experience, a recognised qualification and professional contacts at the same time.
How have you managed the balance between work and study?
Balancing full-time work with academic study is challenging, particularly as my responsibilities within the firm are growing over time. As you progress through the apprenticeship, expectations increase on both sides, which often means committing time outside of working hours to stay on top of coursework and exam preparation. I have found it manageable by staying organised, planning ahead, and keeping on top of deadlines. University study requires a high level of self-discipline, and ultimately the responsibility to succeed lies with you. Despite the challenges, the experience is extremely rewarding. The practical experience I gain in the firm directly supports my academic learning, allowing me to see how legal theory applies in real cases. Equally, what I learn at university can be applied immediately in the workplace, reinforcing both sides of the apprenticeship. I am also fortunate to receive strong support from my employers, mentor, and colleagues, who understand the demands of combining a law degree with professional work. This combination of planning, focus, and guidance allows me to stay motivated while maintaining a healthy balance between both aspects of the apprenticeship.
What advice would you give to someone considering a Higher Level Apprenticeship?
The Higher Level Apprenticeship route is a fantastic way to gain real experience in a legal environment while working towards a law degree. It allows you to earn while you learn, avoid tuition fees, and progress towards qualification as a solicitor, making this pathway highly attractive. However, law degree apprenticeships are still relatively new in Northern Ireland, so opportunities are limited and highly competitive. It is important to apply yourself fully and do thorough research before entering the world of work. Research firms, reach out to them, submit your CV, and demonstrate genuine interest by learning about their areas of practice. The apprenticeship is not an easy option and requires real commitment. As an apprentice, your primary responsibility is to your role within the firm, alongside meeting the academic demands of the degree. Balancing full-time work with study requires strong time management, organisation, and self-discipline. Take the time to ensure the Higher Level Apprenticeship pathway suits your learning style and career goals. Make the most of every opportunity: ask questions, get involved, and engage fully with the experience. I am thoroughly enjoying my apprenticeship journey and would strongly encourage other students to consider it as a practical, rewarding, and career-focused alternative that leads to the same academic outcome as the traditional route. Be confident in choosing this pathway and do not feel pressured to follow the traditional university route. Higher Level Apprenticeships provide early responsibility, excellent opportunities, and clear progression for those willing to put in the work.
