SQE Journey

Flex Legal Training Scheme with Ellie Murray-McNeive

ByPradip Khakhar

Thinking about a career as a solicitor? The Flex Legal Training Scheme might be the perfect fit for you. This week, we hear from Ellie Murray-McNeive, Head of Talent at Flex Legal, who offers valuable insights into the Flex Legal Training Scheme.

Question 1

What is the Flex Training Scheme and where can we find out more?

Flex Trainee is a 2 year training programme for aspiring solicitors to gain their Qualifying Work Experience and Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE). Trainees kick of their 2 years with a 3 week in person ‘Readiness Programme’ packed full of training, networking and development. They then complete a 1 or 2 year secondment in an in house legal team at a company like Shell, Diageo, Natwest or McDonalds (to name a few!). Across the 2 years they have the support of Flex and their trainee peers.

Flex Trainee is open to those holding a qualifying law degree. We accept applications from those who already hold the LPC or SQE1 but this is not a requirement.

We launched our Co Sec trainee scheme last summer. A career in Corporate Governance is hugely interesting and rewarding. I would strongly suggest considering this route, if you’re a Law, Business Management, Accounting and Finance graduates. 

Question 2

What are the top three attributes Flex Legal looks for in candidate applications?

  • Diligence
  • Commerciality
  • Positivity

Question 3

How can I make my CV more attractive/ stand out?

Avoiding over reliance on AI within your CV or cover letter. By all means, use AI as a tool for support but don’t rely wholly on AI or your application will lack authenticity. Those with great academics or paralegal experience will stand out; though you shouldn’t be discouraged from applying if that doesn’t apply to you.

Question 4

What skills & practice areas are in high demand currently that employers are looking for?

Commercial contracts experience is always in demand for our legal trainee route.

Governance or board experience is desirable but not required for Co Sec trainee. 

Question 5

In your view, what trends are shaping the legal market?

AI will undoubtedly change the shape of the paralegal and trainee landscape. Recent international geopolitical affairs have meant a shift in focus for some businesses away from the Diversity & Inclusion initiative. At Flex we are proud to still champion social mobility! 

More information and how to apply

To learn more and apply for the upcoming cohort, please visit Flex.Legal

Applications for Flex Trainee’s Spring 2026 Cohort are now live until Sunday 9th November!

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