Law graduate Matthew Lill has successfully completed a Level 7 apprenticeship to become a qualified solicitor with Lindum Group.

Matthew spent one year working as a paralegal and two as an apprentice solicitor while completing his training and passing his SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Exam).

He has now finished his studies and has been admitted to the roll of solicitors and obtained a Practising Certificate from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

While Lindum has a long history of delivering apprenticeships, Matthew is the first employee to study for a Level 7 qualification, which is the highest level of apprenticeship available and is equivalent to a master’s degree.

The course involves students being challenged academically as they would in a master’s but having to balance a job alongside.

Matthew, who grew up in Lincoln and attended Priory City of Lincoln Academy before studying law at Nottingham Trent University, said: “I’m delighted to have completed my apprenticeship and to be starting my career as a fully qualified solicitor.

“After leaving school, I studied for an LLB Hons in Law, but to legally be able to refer to myself and practise as a solicitor, I needed to complete two years qualifying work experience and sit the SQE.

“When I joined Lindum in 2021, the promise of training was part of my contract and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received with my studies.

“I’ve learned so much on the job, too. I manage my own caseload of projects up to £20 million in value and get exposed to some great quality work by advising on a variety of different projects as well as assisting in defending and pursuing claims.”

During his course, Matthew worked under the guidance of Lindum’s Legal Services Manager Clifford Fearnley and our Apprentice Manager John Levey.

Lindum is currently supporting 30 apprentices and trainees through a variety of courses, including site-based skills such and bricklaying and joinery as well as office-based roles, such as quantity surveying and business administration.

Lindum Co-Chairman Freddie Chambers said: “I would like to congratulate Matt on completing his apprenticeship. It’s not easy to balance studying and full-time work but this is proof that it can be done if you have the right attitude and the right support.

“Lindum is well known for its construction work, but this is a reminder that our industry includes so many different career paths. Not only do we employ people in practical and technical roles, but our business includes experts in law, finance, marketing, HR and more.

“We are really pleased for Matt, whose hard work and commitment has paid off, and we’re delighted he is part of the Lindum team.”