National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Meet Izzy Maybury, Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentice

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2026 runs from 9–15 February 2026 and is the 19th annual, nationwide celebration of apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses, and the wider UK economy. This week brings together apprentices, employers, training providers, parents, schools, colleges, and skills organisations to shine a light on the opportunities apprenticeships create — be that workplace skills, career pathways, or routes into professional sectors like law, engineering, finance, digital and more. Throughout the week there are events, toolkits, and shared stories designed to inspire, inform and champion apprenticeships as a route to lifelong skills and fulfilling careers.

To celebrate, we’re shining a spotlight on CILEX apprentice, Izzy Maybury. Izzy is currently completing her Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship while working as a Document Solutions Assistant at Higgs LLP. She shares what inspired her to start an apprenticeship, how it has helped her grow in confidence, and her ambition to qualify as a solicitor through the apprenticeship pathway.

Can you tell us about your apprenticeship?

I am currently completing a Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship. I was 20 years old when I started the course.

I heard about the apprenticeship through work — a colleague was completing the course at the time. My line manager and I thought this would be the best next step in terms of progression, and I was really looking forward to learning more about Higgs as a business.

Did you have any prior experience before starting?

Before my apprenticeship, I had completed a Law A level, which I found really interesting and it further developed my desire to work within the legal system.

I had also been working at Higgs for a year before starting my apprenticeship, so I had some knowledge of how law firms work — but it was minimal. The apprenticeship has allowed me to build on that foundation in a much more structured way.

What does your current role involve?

I work as a Document Solutions Assistant (DSA) within the legal services department at Higgs LLP.

My role involves supporting all legal and other departments with their workload. This includes distributing incoming and outgoing post, carrying out scanning tasks, storing documentation, and liaising with hospitals regarding medical records.

I communicate with most departments across the firm, which gives me insight into the different roles and areas within the business. That exposure has been really valuable.

How has the apprenticeship helped you develop?

Starting this apprenticeship has helped my confidence massively.

Having regular webinars and putting myself forward for more activities has really helped me become more confident. I’ve grown professionally by stepping outside of my comfort zone.

It has also strengthened my time management skills. Juggling my normal workload with studying has meant I’ve had to become more organised — and that’s benefited me both professionally and personally.

What support have you received from CILEX Law School?

CILEX provides various platforms for support, including tutors, learning resources and safeguarding contacts.

The learning resources are very detailed and easy to use. They also cover topics beyond the course content, such as supporting mental and physical health.

My tutor is approachable, always happy to help and very knowledgeable about the course. We also have regular progress reviews involving myself, my tutor and my line manager, which give a clear insight into how I’m progressing and where I can improve.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship?

The most rewarding part has been progressing professionally while learning new skills and information alongside working full time.

Being able to see my own development and growth has been incredibly motivating.

Have you faced any challenges?

Confidence has been a challenge for me.

However, I’ve started to overcome this by planning and completing practice interviews with my tutor. Having that structured support has made a real difference and helped me prepare for professional situations more effectively.

What are your future career goals?

My goal is to become a qualified solicitor through the apprenticeship pathway.

The apprenticeship route has shown me that there are structured, achievable pathways into the legal profession, and I’m excited about what’s ahead.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?

Make sure you research the course that fits your qualifications and experience, and ask questions to those who are currently completing an apprenticeship.

Once you’re on the apprenticeship, get involved as much as you can. Take every opportunity to build your skills and confidence.

Inspired by Izzy’s story?

This National Apprenticeship Week, discover how an apprenticeship could help you build confidence, gain experience and take the next step in your legal career.

Explore apprenticeship pathways with CILEX Law School.