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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Abbie Whitlock

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Sep 11, 2025
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thank you! my concern lies in the commercial element; i want to assume it'll be a short commercial article and not a written exercise since i reckon they would outright state that, but i'm also wondering if it could be open-ended commercial questions with no article or case about trends and so am unsure about how to divide my time in preparation, any thoughts?
Hey!

I would say that the safest approach is to prepare for both without splitting your time too rigidly! It might make sense to focus mainly on strengthening your general commercial awareness, and making sure that you understand the key trends affecting the firm’s core sectors, why they matter to clients in those areas, and how lawyers add value. Alongside that, you could practice quickly analysing a short news article by identifying the main issues, the business impact and the legal implications.

Ultimately, they’ll likely be looking for you to show structured thinking and commercial awareness. As long as you have an understanding of the factors affecting the firms clients, and can analyse a business problem, you should be in a strong position. Best of luck! :)
 

Abbie Whitlock

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Sep 11, 2025
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I have an AC tomorrow at a firm I'm not really too keen on. How bad would it be if I just ghosted it?
Hello!

It is totally fine to not go to the AC if you are not that keen on the firm. However, I would avoid ghosting the firm and just send them a quick email to let them know you can no longer attend - it is always best to avoid burning bridges, plus it shows respect to the graduate recruitment team who might have to let interviewers know :)
 
Hi everyone! I'm very fortunate to have been offered vacation schemes with both Slaughters and Links, but their dates clash and I will have to pick one (I am aware that both firms do a June scheme, but I will be away at the time so can only do July). Which firm do you guys think will have better training prospects/culture as a trainee? If anyone has done a vacation scheme at either, I would love to hear your thoughts!
 

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