Are you looking for an opportunity to kickstart a career as a secretary in the legal industry? The Secretarial Trainee Program at Adams & Adams could be your chance to build the skills and qualifications needed to excel in this field. Designed to empower previously disadvantaged individuals, this one-year training course offers extensive hands-on experience, practical knowledge, and a stepping stone to meaningful employment.
If you’re between 18 and 30 years old, fluent in English, and ready to learn, this might just be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.
Secretarial Trainee Program Details
- Course Duration: The program runs for 12 months, from March 1 to February 28.
- Mid-Year and Final Exams: Trainees will be evaluated through a mid-year exam and a final exam, ensuring they have mastered the skills and knowledge required.
- Location: Pretoria, South Africa.
What is the Secretarial Trainee Program?
The Academy at Adams & Adams was established in 2000 with a specific mission: to provide high-quality training for previously disadvantaged individuals aspiring to become professional secretaries. Accredited by the Services SETA under registration number 12842, the Academy offers the Further Education and Training Certificate: Business Administration Services qualification (SAQA ID 61595 LP35928) at NQF Level 4.
Although the course structure has evolved over the years, its core objective remains unchanged—to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure employment in secretarial positions immediately upon completion. Each year, only twelve candidates are carefully selected through a rigorous testing process that evaluates computer, keyboarding, and linguistic skills.
Course Structure and Content
The Secretarial Trainee Program is designed to develop and refine essential secretarial skills over the span of one year, starting from March 1 and concluding on February 28 of the following year. The program is divided into two phases, with each focusing on different aspects of the role.
Phase I (First 5-6 Months):
- Basic Skills Development: Participants focus on building a strong foundation in typing and keyboarding skills, as well as gaining an introduction to the legal environment and the general principles of working life. During this phase, trainees are assessed on their competency and only those who perform exceptionally well will advance to Phase II.
Phase II (Advanced Training):
- Specialized Secretarial Skills: This phase delves deeper into skills like typing speed (aiming for a goal of 60 words per minute), advanced audio typing, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
- Legal Environment Adaptation: Participants receive training in legal theory and terminology, preparing them for the specific demands of working in the legal sector, particularly in departments like Patents, Trademarks, and Conveyancing.
- Office Administration and Business Communication: Advanced training modules cover critical administrative skills, including professional note-taking, letter writing, memo drafting, and presentation preparation.
- Life Skills and Professional Grooming: The program also incorporates life skills training, focusing on financial planning, time management, professional image and grooming, and telephone etiquette.
The curriculum is further supported by practical training across various administrative and secretarial tasks, ensuring that trainees not only gain theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience. By the end of the course, participants will have a comprehensive skill set that will make them highly employable in the legal environment.
Who Should Apply?
This program is specifically designed for individuals from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who are eager to embark on a career as a secretary, particularly within the legal field. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Between 18 and 30 years old.
- Education: A Matric certificate with Computer Applications Technology or a post-matric qualification that includes Typing or Keyboarding and Microsoft Office applications (minimum of 25 wpm).
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English, both written and verbal. An average grade of C (between 60% and 69%) in English is advantageous.
- Willingness to Learn: Candidates should be eager to work hard and absorb all the training provided.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications between October 1 and October 15 for the following year’s program. Applications should be submitted online through the Adams & Adams website. Simply follow these steps:
- Visit the Vacancy List Page: Go to the firm’s vacancy list and look for the “Secretarial Trainees” posting.
- Click on the “Apply Now” Button: This will take you to the application form.
- Upload Your Documents: Attach your CV, a copy of your ID document, and all relevant certificates in PDF format. Ensure that these are combined into a single attachment to avoid incomplete submissions.
Important Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered. Make sure that all your documents are up-to-date and properly formatted before submitting.
Tip: Free CV Templates that Pass the Applicant Tracking System
Why Choose the Secretarial Trainee Program?
- Accredited Qualification: Trainees will graduate with the Further Education and Training Certificate: Business Administration Services qualification, an NQF Level 4 certification that is recognized nationwide.
- Hands-on Experience: The program includes practical training across different legal departments, ensuring a well-rounded exposure to the industry.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: From basic computyping skills to advanced secretarial tasks and legal theory, the program covers all aspects needed to succeed in the legal secretarial profession.
- Employment Readiness: Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and qualifications necessary to be immediately employable as secretaries in the legal industry.
The program is entirely free for the selected trainees. Additionally, participants will receive a stipend during the learnership period to support them financially. Adams & Adams only require a commitment to complete the training and a willingness to work under pressure.
