Starting my Training Contract at Arcadia

This week marks my first week as a trainee solicitor at Arcadia Trust Group, sitting within the legal team. When I initially applied for the role, I’ll admit that the prospect of working with trusts felt quite daunting. I had little prior experience in this area, and given the nature of Arcadia’s work, I knew trusts formed a significant part of what the team does. While they’re not something I’m dealing with every day just yet, I’ve started to build my understanding and knowing I have the support of the team has made stepping into this new area feel much less overwhelming.

Trainees at Arcadia get given responsibility from the beginning. While there’s early responsibility, it’s balanced with plenty of support and at a comfortable training pace.

My journey into law started when I took Law at A-level and quickly realised that it was the career path I wanted to pursue. I completed my LLB at the University of Reading, including a year abroad in Geneva, Switzerland. After graduating, I took some time out and in March 2023, I began my LLM and SQE prep course with the University of Law, completing my Masters in April this year. My plan now is to sit the SQE1 and SQE2 in the next year, building on the practical experience I gain as part of the team at Arcadia.

Before joining Arcadia, I worked as a paralegal working across the private client and conveyancing team. The opportunity to provide invaluable support to clients during significant life events made me realise that private client work is the area I want to specialise in.

Outside of work, I enjoy CrossFit and competing in competitions, as well as spending time with family and friends. I also love long walks with my miniature dachshund.

Katherine Fielden