The time taken to train as a legal executive varies, depending upon whether entry is via a graduate or non-graduate route.
To become a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives, a member has to be at least 25 years old and have had a minimum of 5 years qualifying employment under the supervision of a solicitor. (At least 2 years of this period must be after passing the final examinations).
Fellowship is required to go forward to qualify as a solicitor but, once again, the time span may vary because it's possible to undertake some of the studies (and to take the examinations) before Fellowship is achieved.
See here:
http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyo urcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile168/
and here:
http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyo urcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile167/
Chris