Nikita Erving joined Shoosmiths in March 2025 and is currently a second-seat trainee in the Commercial team based in Manchester. Here she shares strategies for managing the demands of work while preparing for exams and continuing legal education.
Published: 16 February 2026
Author: Nikita Erving
Like many other aspiring trainee solicitors, I worked full time whilst completing the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and had to learn how to effectively balance my professional responsibilities with the demands of studying and exams.
Working as a paralegal during the LPC gave me invaluable experience and insight into the real-world application of my studies. However, it required me to adapt quickly and manage my time effectively.
Here are some practical tips that helped me.
Time management
The key to managing the demands of work while preparing for exams is to plan ahead. For me, this meant creating a structured schedule that included my working hours, allocated study time, and personal time. Your LPC/Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) provider should indicate the independent learning hours expected of you per week, which will allow you to factor this into your schedule and plan accordingly.
Set achievable goals for each day. An overly ambitious schedule can lead to stress and reduced motivation, so aim for what feels doable.
Communication
Open communication with your employer, tutors, and family members is essential. Let your employer know about your studies early so you can discuss any support or adjustments you might need to help you balance work and study.
It is also helpful to talk about exam dates and the possibility of study leave as soon as possible, so both parties can manage expectations. Transparency about your availability and time constraints will also help you to set realistic expectations with friends and family so that you don’t feel overwhelmed during study periods.
Support system
The importance of a strong support system cannot be overstated. Having a reliable network of classmates, colleagues, friends and family can make such a difference when it comes to managing stress and keeping motivated.
Support from family and friends can help alleviate some of the stress when you’re feeling under pressure, and your colleagues and classmates might be able to offer useful advice on workload management and study techniques.
Technology
Leveraging technology can significantly improve your time management.
Digital calendars provide a visual representation of your schedule, making it easier to plan time for different tasks and avoid overbooking. Time-management apps can help you to organise your tasks, allocate focus time, set reminders and track your progress.
By using these tools, you can streamline your work, improve efficiency and create a more manageable routine.
Taking care of yourself
Balancing work and study can be overwhelming, so prioritising self-care to maintain your physical and mental health is crucial.
It's important to allocate time for relaxation and activities that rejuvenate you, such as exercise, hobbies and socialising with family and friends. This not only prevents burnout but also improves your ability to absorb and retain information, making your study sessions more effective.
Remember, taking breaks and practicing self-care isn't a waste of time; it's an investment in your overall well-being and success.
Balancing work and study is challenging, but with planning, communication and support, it is achievable.
Explore more of our recent blogs for insights and inspiration. If you have questions, our FAQ page is a great place to start.
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Still curious or need advice? We would love to hear from you – email us at joinus@shoosmiths.com and our team will be happy to help.