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An opportunity to undertake a training contract at the firm, commencing in 2025.

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An opportunity to undertake a training contract at the firm, commencing in 2025 and 2026.

Applications are open to applicants qualifying under the LPC route only.

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An opportunity to undertake a training contract at the firm, commencing in 2025.

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An opportunity to undertake a training contract at the firm, commencing in 2025/26.

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An opportunity to undertake a training contract at the firm, commencing in 2025.

Apply here.

An opportunity to undertake a training contract at the firm, commencing in 2025.

Apply here.

Hello all!

Hope everyone is doing well and progressing well with their Training Contract (TC) Applications!

I applied for the BDB Pitmans TC 2025 in May this year and am still awaiting to hear about the outcome of my application. Hence I started this thread to hear from any other applicants on the status of their applications!

Looking forward to hearing from you all, hopefully having received positive news from the firm

If you've been following along with me for the past 20 months, you'll note that I have been fairly pessimistic about the ability of central banks to actually bring down inflation, despite the steady base interest rate increases.

However, as of yesterday, it appears the inflation rate is breaking in the US. It's down to 3% as of June, which is the lowest rate it has been in the US since June (according to the FT). This suggests that the Federal Reserve's efforts to slash inflation through rate hikes is working.

A question for the community (and one I have not researched myself), is why the US seems to be doing better than the UK? We touched on this during yesterday evening's first TCLA Office Hours. But I think this will become a very salient talking point in the coming weeks: why is inflation falling in the US (and the EU to a lesser extent), but not the UK? What structural factors are causing this (e.g., things like unemployment rates, trade policies, fiscal [tax] policies, etc.)? What does this mean for commercial clients? What does this mean for law firms?

HI,

Anyone know what happens if you fail the LLM modules on the LPC. I am at BPP with a TC at the moment. Does the firm make you retake it?

Feeling a little frustrated that due to working full time (and needing approval from my workplace to undertake a vac scheme and also having very little annual leave) I am unable to do a vacaction scheme... Which ultimately limits and number of firms I can apply to. Seeing that Eversheds just PFO'd all direct TC apps due to filling all TC spots with vac schemers does not feel great!

Anyone else in the same boat

Hey everyone,

I recently completed my LLB at a university that's not part of the Russell Group, and unfortunately, I haven't secured a training contract. However, I'm determined to kickstart my preparation for the SQE early next year.

• I've been looking into the College Legal Practice as a potential option, but I haven't been able to find any feedback from students beyond what's on their website. If anyone here has taken their SQE prep courses, I'd love to hear about your experiences!
• On a related note, I'm also considering the BPP, SQE/LLM preparation course. Has anyone here attended their online or in-person classes? I'm particularly curious whether attending the course online would make me miss out on any important interactions or resources compared to in-person instruction. I'd also appreciate any comments or insights you can provide about the Sqe prep course or the provider.

Thank you

So I have received my first year grades averaging 58% as follows
Contract : high 2:2
Tort : high 2:2
Legal theory : low 2:1
Public : ungraded but my Jan exam was a mid/high 2;1

As it stands, my overall grade may reach 2:1 if my Public Law derived mark follows my January results. For A-levels, I have AAB equivlent.
Should I still apply to any city firms next year given my grades were so bad? For applicant background, I am studying at RG uni and have done some open days at US firms in first year. I also have some non-legal experience at theatre technician.

Are you feeling a little lost when it comes to the SQE? Don't worry, you're not alone! I know that understanding what it is, why it's being introduced, and how it affects you can be quite daunting. That's why we've got an event specifically designed to unravel the mysteries of the SQE!

Introducing the SQE Explained Simply by TCLA

Whether you're just starting your legal journey and want to get a head start on what to expect, or you're planning to take the SQE in the future and struggling to grasp its implications, this event is tailor-made for you. Even if you're currently completing the SQE but crave a simple breakdown of what you need to know, we've got you covered. And hey, if you're a seasoned legal professional eager to stay updated on the latest changes, this event is an absolute must!

Our experts will dive into its structure, explain how it applies to you, and ensure that you leave with the confidence and knowledge you need to navigate this exciting transformation in the legal profession. We’ll be joined by Jessica Booker, TCLA’s graduate recruitment expert, to discuss what you need to know about the SQE.

Event Details

Date: Jul 20, 2023
Time: 18:00
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/4316890674972/WN_YRlughHJSxyLDYIwBLWn5Q


But hurry! We have limited availability with only 100 spots up for grabs, and they'll be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. So don't delay, register now to secure your place at this must-attend event!

And the best part? This event is completely FREE! We're thrilled to partner with The College of Legal Practice, who will have a representative joining us to break down the details of the SQE programme.

Ready to embark on your SQE journey with confidence? Register now to secure your place, and let's unlock the potential of the SQE together!

Register Now!

Hello everyone! I'm Niyati Nagda, a first-year LLB Law and Business student at Queen Mary University of London. It's a pleasure to be here and share my first post on the TCLA forum.

I'm also honoured to serve as the new product lead at TCLA, where I have the opportunity to better support individuals like us on their legal journey. I believe in leading with empathy and discipline, and I'm genuinely eager to understand how we all perceive the challenges we encounter throughout the legal application process.

Whether it's researching firms for open days or navigating the intricacies of the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination) and beyond, I'm here to help TCLA provide even better support in the upcoming application cycle. I’ll also be sharing my journey to securing a Training Contract in this thread. Lets get that Training Contract!


Context about me:

I moved out of Mumbai at the age of 19 to pursue a legal education and a subsequent career in London. I approached this journey with an open mind, devoid of any preconceived notions. However, I was taken aback and humbled by the intense demands of student life in this bustling city. Balancing my academics, social life, part-time jobs, and applications for legal work experience, all without a support system, proved to be a formidable challenge. We often underestimate the immense stress aspiring lawyers face in such circumstances.

I encountered setbacks along the way. Coming from a vastly different educational background, it took me several months to grasp the expectations placed upon me as a student. Unfortunately, my lack of confidence in myself led me to miss out on incredible opportunities to apply to prestigious firms through open days and first-year schemes. I hesitated and ultimately abandoned numerous behavioural and psychometric tests after submitting written applications. I believed I had no skills or assets that these firms could possibly find useful, which left me feeling guilty for falling short of my parents' expectations, let alone my own. But you know what? Reaching rock bottom can indicate that things cannot possibly worsen further. It is at this point that a decision must be made: either remain stagnant without improvement or confront fear, push through, and strive for personal growth. It all depends on the choice we make.

The decision to be better:

I made changes because I was afraid of the process and rejection, causing me to miss out on first-year opportunities. However, I realised I could seek guidance from seniors and professionals on LinkedIn. I strived to be better, refine my schedule, and understand to deliver my expectations better. Comparing myself to others was unproductive. I'm on my own path, and my proactivity and effort matter the most.

During the summer, I looked for a part-time job. I applied to thirty-two places and got rejected by the first seventeen. It made me realise that rejections are part of the discovery process. I eliminated unsuitable opportunities and applied to niche positions. I assessed my capacities, morals, and objectives for the next five years candidly. It wasn't easy, but it left me more calm and confident when making decisions and selecting roles I applied to. I became the Vice President of the Student Advancement Society, which reinforced my confidence. However, I faced rejections for other opportunities. I saw them as learning experiences, not reflections of my self-worth. "No's" are crucial for refinement. Once I stopped taking them personally, I recognised my own strengths and areas for improvement.

A few days ago, I also secured a job at TCLA after going through three application stages. It was truly an amazing company, one that I was familiar with and had little hope of getting into when I applied a month ago. Throughout the entire process, the value of honesty to oneself and others remained crucial. Navigating the experience with honesty is essential. Only by meeting our own expectations and standards in life and finding peace in the effort we've put in can we truly be pleased and content. The journey to obtaining a training contract is demanding and challenging, requiring consistent effort and dedication. I've learned numerous lessons throughout this process, as I navigate it alongside all of you. Undertaking it with determination and optimism can be incredibly rewarding. When it comes to burdens, let's share them and make the most of this supportive and empowering community. : )

Based on my experience and the advice that has helped me over the past few months, I have compiled three key points to share:

1. Maintaining physical fitness & creating a balanced routine:

Investing in stress reduction techniques such as meditation and mindfulness can greatly benefit your overall well-being. Despite dealing with ADHD, I have found that these practices improve my focus, cognitive function, and sleep quality. They also positively impact my mood, mental health, and productivity. It's important to incorporate buffer days and socialising into your routine, allowing you to recharge and explore the country and its rich legal history.

Remember to invest in your future self by dedicating time to hobbies, passions, and interests outside of academics and applications. For example, I enjoy combat sports, so I make sure to allocate time for gym sessions or sports. Additionally, taking jogs in parks during the cold has proven to be a fantastic stress reliever for me.

2. Researching and preparing yourself:

Knowledge and confidence go hand in hand. The more prepared you are, the more faith you will have when networking with professionals at legal events or engaging in conversations with peers. Always aim to learn something new and make each interaction memorable, rather than coming across as a desperate student seeking exclusive information about a firm. Remember that conversations are an exchange of value beyond words. Strive to find the value in other people and seek mutual benefit.

While focusing on law firm applications is crucial, don't neglect your academic responsibilities. Establish a strong foundation in law and moderate your energy between assignments and applications. Take advantage of networking opportunities by attending student society events that invite law firm panels and utilising your career services to find opportunities for better networking and professional development. Networking is not just about gaining a good reputation; it's about building meaningful connections and leveraging those relationships for mutual support and growth. Exercise effective communication skills by approaching conversations with empathy and curiosity. Ask questions and get to know the individuals you interact with on a personal level. Create and follow a plan of action while networking with seniors, exploring legal opportunities at smaller solicitors in your vicinity, and investing in markets to keep up with trends in companies. Use term time strategically to schedule your applications and actively engage in LinkedIn networking. Reach out to people, ask for help, and build your own network of contacts who can assist you in refining your applications and understanding of the firms you apply to.

3. Embrace solitude:

If you have recently moved out and are living on your own for the first time, it's crucial to find comfort in your own company. Be content with who you are and avoid comparing yourself to others. Your self-worth should not be determined solely by external achievements or judgments. Take time for self-reflection and independent thinking. While friends and acquaintances are important, remember that you are the one who defines your own identity and values. If you ever need reminders or a break, reach out to those who genuinely care about you and want the best for you. This could include family, mentors, friends, seniors, or anyone who understands and supports your journey. Surrounding yourself with individuals who empower and uplift you can be incredibly valuable.

Lastly, I wanted to emphasise that I am sharing my journey and posting here to hold myself accountable and also to encourage others who are on a similar path to share their experiences. We are all in this together, and by supporting and learning from each other, we can navigate the application process more effectively. Let's create a supportive space where we can discuss and address our challenges, exchange advice, and provide encouragement to one another.

Where are you currently in your journey, and what are your biggest concerns when it comes to applications?

I achieved 66% in my first year studying law and my second-year average is 59.4%. I am really worried that firms would think I would not be able to achieve a good 2.1 because of this, since some top firms want 65%+ which is why I think I got a lot of VS interviews in my first year. Are my grades too poor for TC applications? I don't really have mitigating circumstances and the reason I did so poorly is because I kept applying for so many schemes this year which shifted my focus from exams.

edit:
I thought I should post my grades in full to provide a better picture

First Year:

• Tort Law - 73%
• Public Law -71%
• Law & Legal Theory - 64%
• Contract Law - 57%

Second year:

• EU Law - 64%
• Advanced Tort -61%
• Criminal Law -61%
• Land Law - 56%
• Personal Property -55%

Hi, I am a second-year undergraduate at a decent Russel group seeking advice on my chances for a vac scheme next year. I have decent pre-university grades, with A*A*A*A. I have a few spring weeks in banking, accounting and multiple open days + a first-year law scheme in my second year of university( I am on a four-year course with a year abroad ). I also have a summer internship at one of the big four next year in London following my spring week. The only issue is that during my first and second years, I experienced a lot of "mitigating circumstances, " meaning that I achieved a 58 in the first year and 60 in the second year but I have not scored below 2.2 in any module. I am graded for my year abroad( it does not affect the outcome for my classification outside of having a distinction, merit and pass next to a 2.1). As a result, I have a few questions for people on this forum:

(1) What are my chances of gaining a vac scheme next year at a firm like a SC or large international firm?
(2) What firms would be more willing to place less emphasis on grades and look at an application as a whole?

Hi! First post so hope I'm doing this the right way...

I recently received my results for first year and would really appreciate any thoughts on them. My plan is/was to apply to vac schemes in 2nd year.

Contract - high 2:1
Property - low/mid 2:1
Constitutional - mid 2:2
Module 4 - unknown

My average at the moment (ignoring the module I have not received my results for) is a low/mid 2:1.
My concern is that I am certain that I did badly in Module 4 (2:2/3rd) worthy which would drop me to 2:2 level.

How bad is this? Would my contract grades balance out Constitutional & Module 4?

Thank you!

Hi

I am an international student finishing my 1st year in LLB from a Russel Group Uni in London. In my second year (which is starting in September 2023) I will be applying for VS and then in my 3rd year (from June 2024) for TC. Given that TCLA premium is pricey, do you suggest taking it this year (to help me with VS) or next year (to help with TC ?)

Thank you.

Hi everyone,

I’m a 2022 first class honours law graduate. My LLB journey was 100% smooth with no hiccups. However, in 2018-2019 I studied Psychology for a year at a London University. I got called in for a meeting with my uni lecturer regarding a piece of group coursework me and other students did. Mine ended up having a high % in plagiarised material. However, I was not kicked out or anything but I cannot recall what happened with that module.

I carried on with the first year of teaching and then dropped out in 2018 & then began my LLB Law course. I was offered resits but I just left the course. Given this occurred nearly over 6yrs ago and with a uni where I did not attend the full 3 years, would I have to declare this to the Bar Standards Board?

Secondly, I have credit card debt that was transferred to different debt collecting agencies through which I am on payment plans for. This was mainly bc I was in a very toxic relationship where financial control was being forced on me. Having gotten married and then shortly after divorced earlier this year, I am working full time and slowly but consistently paying off my debt. But I have had no court injunctions or any legal action against me in relation to any of the debt. Would I need to declare this to the Bar Standards Board?

I would appreciate any help at all.

I am a future trainee. I have to come back next year, do my exams, and start my TC.

However, I am concerned about potential plagiarism regarding a piece of coursework I submitted last year. I didn't get to finish it, and it was very poorly referenced. I checked on a Turnitin-powered plagiarism checker, and the rate of 3-4% plagiarised material.

In the event I do get convicted of plagiarism, what is the possibility of my TC being rescinded? Are there any steps I can take to mitigate this possibility? For example, I am sure my tutor would write me a good reference when applying for an early assessment by the SRA.

Hi TCLA!

I've just found out I have secured a place on the AS 2023 Aspire programme!

From members of TCLA who have taken part in previous years, it would be great to hear about your experience, how you found the scheme and what to expect.

And for any TCLA members who have secured a place for this year, please do post down below! Look forward to meeting you at the upcoming events

Thanks!

Hi Everyone,
My name is Rubi and I am one of the millions of aspiring lawyers living in the South. I am looking for a PGDL course on-line, since we move often, can you recommend a good school? I am currently looking for funding options as well from charity organisations. Thanks for reading.

Hey everyone,

So the classification of my degree is. 2:1 but in terms of scores its a 2:2 (59%). Most of my modules are 2:1s/1sts with one third in second year and three thirds in final year due to mitigating circumstances.

I’m seriously contemplating whether pursuing a TC is right for me. I’m presuming a conversion course will help taking a step into a legal career (e.g paralegal) easier, but not sure if self funding a PGDL is worthy. Any insights on what I can do with a PGDL besides law and any experiences of people who got a TC even with v v low 2:1s or even high 2:2s would be incredibly helpful! Thanks in advance~

I’d just like some advice on what to do in my position.

I’m about to graduate with a 2.1 LLB from a good uni, and I really want to start working when possible but I’m having trouble getting to even the interview stages. I’ve spoken to my uni’s career services and professors multiple times and they liked my CV, while also providing valuable feedback to make it better. I have multiple forms of legal experiences which show my interest to work in the legal sector, and I’ve had three internships (two in person, one online during the pandemic).

I think my main problem is that my in-person internships were undertaken outside of the UK. I’m an international student and whenever possible I return home, so I apply to work to internships there too. These internships come from globally renowned companies and all are Tier 1 firms on Legal 500, so there's no question to their caliber or competitiveness. For example I worked at Dentons, but this was in my home country. I do understand how working outside of the UK legal sector may not necessarily add up as experience, but I’m still at a loss as to why it wouldn’t be considered valuable.

My parents would like me to go back home and take the Bar exams, as it’s only 12 months and afterwards I would be qualified as a lawyer. In those 9 months I could accomplish a lot to establish myself further. They mentioned that qualifying at home would significantly enhance my skills and make me more employable in the UK, make me stand out, but I can’t help wondering if this would actually have such an impact.

I’m not against it as my plan has always been to qualify in multiple jurisdictions, but would it really have a positive impact towards me entering a graduate program, getting a TC or starting off as a paralegal? I feel as if I need to gain more experience and to do that I may need to stay in the UK. Doing the bar exams at home may just push back the amount of time I intend to achieve this goal, and this is a competitive market. I need to get my foot in the door first.

I plan to complete the SQE as I want to become a solicitor, and I feel as if I should apply for the SQE + LLM in January so I have more time to go ahead and upskill myself during my enrollment. My professors have suggested for me to volunteer to add to my cv, so I’m taking this summer to do it and so far I’m overjoyed, but I still feel lost. Maybe I’m missing something I can’t see. Any advice? I know my mind is a bit scattered, but anything helps.

Hi. I received my first year exam results today and was devastated to see that I only achieved a mid 2:2 (55%). I struggled a lot with moving to University and throughout the year due to my Autism and other mental health struggles that left me constantly overwhelmed and unable to leave my room to attend lectures etc, which my University is aware of. Have I completely messed up my chance of getting a vac scheme next year, or is there still hope that firms might accept my applications? I will be mentioning the above as extenuating circumstances on my applications but I'm just really angry at myself for letting my academics slip and I really hope that I still have a chance at getting a vac scheme.
Any advice would be welcomed.