The Lighthouse Academy
Creating Meaningful Opportunities
The Lighthouse Academy is our award-winning training and skills development programme for law graduates in South Africa.
Established in 2018, the Academy was created to contribute meaningfully to transformation within the legal profession by providing talented BBBEE graduates with practical experience, structured training and exposure to a dynamic commercial law firm environment.
Designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice, the Academy combines formal learning, mentorship and real-world client exposure.
Participants work alongside experienced Lighthouse lawyers, supporting commercial transactions, procurement projects, contract negotiations and legal operations initiatives while developing the legal, commercial and professional skills needed to succeed in today's legal profession.
By blending technical training with practical experience, the Academy helps graduates build confidence, enhance their employability and establish strong foundations for successful careers in commercial law.
Academy Training
Academy participants are immersed in live client work from an early stage. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, participants gain exposure to:
Commercial contracting and negotiation.
Procurement and sourcing projects.
Managed Legal Services engagements.
Legal operations and process improvement initiatives.
Contract lifecycle management.
Technology-enabled legal service delivery.
Client engagement and commercial decision-making.
This practical experience is combined with a structured learning curriculum and ongoing mentorship from Lighthouse lawyers, creating a development experience that balances technical legal knowledge with commercial and professional skills.
Career Pathways
The Lighthouse Academy is designed to create opportunities.
Upon completion of the programme, successful participants may be considered for permanent roles within Lighthouse or opportunities with our clients and wider professional network.
Many former Academy participants have gone on to build successful careers within the legal profession, taking with them the commercial, technical and professional skills developed during their time at Lighthouse.
Structure
DURATION: 12 months
CONTRACT: Trainees will be full time employees for the duration of the 12 months and receive a market competitive salary
STRUCTURE: Academic modules and apprenticeship
Applications
Applications for students starting in 2026 have now closed. If you are interested in joining the Academy in January 2027 please send in your application to the email address below.
Applicants should have completed their law degree by the start date (January of each year), have an interest in commercial and technology law and a strong academic record. Applicants for the Lighthouse Academy should meet BBBEE criteria.
Please email your CV and a covering letter to academy@lighthouse.law
