TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[1stCycleApplicant]

Is it alright to ask a firm for an alternative AC interview date if it clashes with a Vacation Scheme?

Yes ofc. Regardless, if you don’t ask then you won’t be able to do the AC. So why not just ask?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Is it alright to ask a firm for an alternative AC interview date if it clashes with a Vacation Scheme?

Hey!

Yes, it is absolutely fine to ask! Law firms are used to candidates having interview and VS clashes (especially during recruitment season) as they know they operate across similar time periods. As long as you email promptly, explain the situation politely, and offer alternative dates or ask what might be available, it won't reflect badly on you.

You won't know if you don't ask, so it's always worth a try even if they aren't able to!

 

[shadowboxer909]

Starting to get nervous as not heard back from Travers Smith yet!🥴 submitted early morning on the deadline date - is anyone else in the same position?

I think that might be a rejection unfortunately then at this point.

I'm in a similar boat.

 

[bells123]

I think that might be a rejection unfortunately then at this point.

I'm in a similar boat.

I am fearing this however trying to hold out hope (however naively!) that they did say they’d respond to all applicants, even if it was a rejection. Although saying that, I have seen on this thread that they’d responded to applicants even before the deadline when they’ve said they don’t have a rolling cycle so who knows!

 

[routetotrainingcontract]

I think that might be a rejection unfortunately then at this point.

I'm in a similar boat.

I honestly put in so much work in the application so its really disappointing but at the same time we are able to apply for their vacation scheme in the same cycle so it might be worth it applying for that one? i know i will definitely be applying for it again because i really like the firm

 

[bells123]

I honestly put in so much work in the application so its really disappointing but at the same time we are able to apply for their vacation scheme in the same cycle so it might be worth it applying for that one? i know i will definitely be applying for it again because i really like the firm

Same, I spent weeks on the app too as I really love the firm but I work a full time corporate job (not within a law firm) already and just don’t have the ability to take that kind of leave for VC’s😭

 

[WeGotThis!]

Anyone heard from a&o direct tc assesment centre?

I read somewhere that they'll get back with an update in the w/c 8th December

 

[M123]

I read somewhere that they'll get back with an update in the w/c 8th December

I thought this week was when the AC’s started

 

[xyz444]

Has anyone who did Freshfields stage 2 heard back about AC invites?

 

[WeGotThis!]

I thought this week was when the AC’s started

Someone on the VS thread posted that A&O will notify candidates about AC in the first/second week of December, and ACs before Christmas.

 

[yk1906]

Any insights on Irwin Mitchell VI? I mean, is it mainly motivational or strength-based? Thanks!!

 

[yk1906]

Btw, any news about King & Spalding DTC? They said they would uplod the application from Nov 17 and there's nothing.

 

[legallybrunette8]

Anyone who has completed the irwin mitchell test - can you exit out of the test and return to it? Or do you have to complete it in one sitting?

 

[yk1906]

Any insights on Irwin Mitchell VI? I mean, is it mainly motivational or strength-based? Thanks!!

I can help with Freshfields in return!

 

[Laur2cj]

If anyone has any insight or tips for the Irwin Mitchell assessment and VI I would be grateful!

 

[BM99]

Does anyone know whether we will receive the results for CMS WG, or do we need to reach out to recruitment for results?

 

[Bread]

If anyone has any insight or tips for the Irwin Mitchell assessment and VI I would be grateful!

Be prepared to be jumpscared with VI questions throughout!

 

[nansies]

Hi! The deadline for Slaughters DTC is this Friday. Since they're rolling and encourage early applications, do you think it still makes sense to submit an app or best to put effort into others?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi! The deadline for Slaughters DTC is this Friday. Since they're rolling and encourage early applications, do you think it still makes sense to submit an app or best to put effort into others?

Hi!

I would still encourage you to apply, even if it is close to the deadline! Whilst it is advantageous to apply as early as possible, the most important factor in whether you are progressed is the quality of your application. As long as you submit a strong, tailored, and personalised application, I would say that there is plenty of chance to make it to the next stages of the process.

Best of luck with the application!

 

[yk1906]

Be prepared to be jumpscared with VI questions throughout!

Thanks! Just a quick question: is the time prep unlimited?