Terms Explained

GDL - If you studied a non-law degree but wish to become a lawyer, you must take a conversion course known as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).

BPTC - The Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) is a one-year, practical course, designed to provide training that is specific to the work of a junior barrister (a two-year, part-time course is also available at some law schools).

LPC - The Legal Practice Course (LPC) is the vocational stage of training to be a Solicitor that must be taken after completing a law degree or the GDL conversion course.

CILEx Fast Track - You can complete this course if you have a qualifying law degree gained within the last 7 years

Pupilage - This is a yearlong apprenticeship required before becoming a Barrister

Training Contract - This is a two year employment contract with a law firm before qualifying as a Solicitor

CILEx Level 3 - This is a course through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and is the route if you don’t have a law degree

CILEx Level 6 - This is a course through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and is the route if you don’t have a law degree

Apprenticeship Level 2 - This is taking the legal apprenticeship route and is undertaken on the job

Apprenticeship Level 3 - This is taking the legal apprenticeship route and is untertaken on the job

Apprenticeship Level 4 - This is taking the legal apprenticeship route and is undertaken on the job