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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Haven't been on here for a good minute but I return as a Future Trainee, received a TC after my first vac scheme woooo 🎉 🎊
Haven’t been on here in a while but I’m happy to share that I’ve received a TC offer from a US firm on my 3rd cycle! 🥳

Looking forward to my future trainee badge!
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Haven't been on here for a good minute but I return as a Future Trainee, received a TC after my first vac scheme woooo 🎉 🎊

Haven’t been on here in a while but I’m happy to share that I’ve received a TC offer from a US firm on my 3rd cycle! 🥳

Looking forward to my future trainee badge!

So proud of you both!
 
Has anyone been part of the summer Exeter scheme with Ashfords LLP?

It’s technically going to be my first vacation scheme, and of course I want to prepare for it the best way. There’s still plenty of time, but I wanted to ask for tips and whether the firm is worth it long term. I genuinely like the firm and I’m interested in it, but as law students we tend to apply for every opportunity. Especially coming from Manchester, I’m trying to think realistically about long term goals. Of course any TC is valuable, but still.

Also, what should I expect overall?

And one more thing, I’d ideally relocate to Exeter for the week. Any good hotel recommendations? Do they usually pay for attending the scheme? I know they cover accommodation. And just generally, how can I make the most of it?
 
Hey guys I have a slight conundrum! I am interviewing for several paralegal jobs as I can’t be sure I’m going to convert my VS. I got an offer but I had to tell them I was going to take 2 weeks off in June (practically when I started) and so they said it’s not going to work. I now have another final stage Interview for one tomorrow, but I’m unsure whether I’m going to be able to do the VS and the job. I think the person is leaving in June so I’d need to do a handover before then etc. could I just ask for annual leave for a medical procedure or something? I can’t miss the VS, I worked so hard for it, and I have no idea what to do - but I know it’s not a great look to be starting a job and immediately taking annual leave.
 
Is it weird to get silence from a firm after accepting a TC?

I accepted a TC with a firm about 3 weeks ago, following a vacation scheme. The offer letter said after returning the contract we'd immediately be sent details for onboarding etc, I haven't had anything at all though. I emailed early careers on Monday about a different matter and haven't had a reply all week.

I'm sure I'm overthinking, and they're probably just busy, but I feel like I should've heard something from them?
Yes, totally normal. They often have other vac schemes they are preparing for, trainees development they are managing, and also your TC is so far in the future that the contact levels can be quite low. I wouldn't worry, though, your TC is in the bag!
 
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