Hard work, commitment, and dedication to progressing a career – it’s what is required to become a solicitor.

Callum Andrews, a Senior Fee Earner in Vehicle Damage, and Lauren Lyall, a Senior Fee Earner in the same department, take the next step on that journey when starting their training contract at Winn Group.

Chris Cullingworth, Head of VD, and Rebecca Colby, Deputy Head of VD, said: “We are thrilled Callum and Lauren are beginning their training contracts within the Vehicle Damage team.

“It is wonderful to be able to support and guide them in the next stage of their careers. They have worked so hard to get to this point and we wish them every success for the future.”

Jo Amos, Training Principal, said: “I am very pleased that Callum and Lauren are now starting their training contracts for which they were interviewed in December 2022, as they faced stiff competition from the other candidates and have worked hard to reach this stage of their legal careers.

“I am sure that they will make the most of the opportunity to extend their legal knowledge and experience over the next two years and achieve their goal of becoming a qualified solicitor.”

We decided to catch up with the pair to find out what it means to be accepted on this path and give us an insight into getting there for those of you who may be considering applying for future training contract opportunities, of which there are many.

Did you always aspire to take up a training contract?

CA: My goal was always to become a Solicitor since graduating from university. I still remember hearing people say they had secured a training contract whilst at university - I was a bit jealous! It has taken a bit of time and a lot of hard work, but I have secured one now.

LL: I have been working toward it since I started studying law at sixth form in 2015! I hoped that while working at Winns I would be lucky enough to secure a training contract. 

What are your feelings now you are starting this next step in your career?

CA: I was very nervous but excited to get started at the same time. I would definitely say Imposter Syndrome kicks in, but I just need to keep working hard and embrace the challenges ahead - I am sure these next two years will soon fly by.

LL: I don’t think it has quite sunk in properly yet! I’m really excited to get started and learn more about different areas of law. I couldn’t have reached this point without my colleagues, friends, and family supporting me and never doubting me (as cheesy as it sounds!) throughout my final year of university alongside working in my role as a Senior Fee Earner. It has been very tough, but I am almost there! I’d like to thank Katelin Haworth and Simone Heppell-Hardy, my supervisors, for their valuable training and support. 

What do you hope to achieve in the future?

CA: I hope that by completing work for other departments within the business, I can gain a good understanding of all the other business areas, along with gaining valuable experience and knowledge which will allow me to further build upon the skills required to make a good solicitor. I am really looking forward to improving my advocacy skills and working and building my knowledge of costs and would love to take on a Solicitor role within the Vehicle Damage department, and, maybe, have a team of my own one day.

LL: I’m hoping to have a successful next two years expanding my knowledge and completing work to a high standard for other departments. 

With a range of career pathways, and a positive environment focused on career development, are you ready to take your next career path with Winn Group? Apply today by clicking here to see our vacancies.