TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2021-22 (#1)

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Jaysen

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  • Feb 17, 2018
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    ELaw2021

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    Future Trainee
    Apr 27, 2021
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    Just had to cancel my assessment centre because I have covid and feeling awful 😣 If I apply to the same firm in the 2021-2022 cycle and mention that I had to cancel, do you think they'll take into consideration the fact that I reached this stage when reviewing my application?
     
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    Just had to cancel my assessment centre because I have covid and feeling awful 😣 If I apply to the same firm in the 2021-2022 cycle and mention that I had to cancel, do you think they'll take into consideration the fact that I reached this stage when reviewing my application?
    Oh no! This sounds horrible- was Graduate Recruitment not able to slot you in for another AC date? I would definitely email and ask if your application could be deferred to the next cycle; perhaps you could be fast tracked to the AC. Hope you feel better soon!
     
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    Emily Kate

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    Oct 26, 2020
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    I have a Freshfields AC on Wednesday and have to analyse a FT article - are there any resources on TCLA to help me with that/does anyone have any tips??
     
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    Dwight

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    Dec 21, 2019
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    Hi @Neville Birdi,

    I hope you are doing well.

    (1) I am aware you are a future trainee solicitor at A&O and you managed to secure the TC via the direct TC route (please correct me If I am wrong). Why did you apply through the direct TC route? Also, do they recruit a lot of candidates through the direct TC? Is there any advantage of applying to the VS over the direct TC?

    I definitely want to apply to A&O next year but atm I am torn between applying to a vacation scheme or a TC.

    (2) Also, was the application process the following: (1) online app --> (2) SJT -->(3) AC (case study interview and situational interview). Basically the TC process is the same as for getting on to the VS?

    Thank you.
     
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    Anon08

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    Hi @Neville Birdi,

    I hope you are doing well.

    (1) I am aware you are a future trainee solicitor at A&O and you managed to secure the TC via the direct TC route (please correct me If I am wrong). Why did you apply through the direct TC route? Also, do they recruit a lot of candidates through the direct TC? Is there any advantage of applying to the VS over the direct TC?

    I definitely want to apply to A&O next year but atm I am torn between applying to a vacation scheme or a TC.

    (2) Also, was the application process the following: (1) online app --> (2) SJT -->(3) AC (case study interview and situational interview). Basically the TC process is the same as for getting on to the VS?

    Thank you.
    Hi @Dwight - thanks for your question!

    You're correct regarding me garnering the TC via the direct-TC route; however, in my case, there is a bit of nuance to the journey.

    I originally applied for A&O's summer vacation scheme and was subsequently offered an interview. However, prior to my interview, my personal circumstances changed, so I politely asked if they would consider changing my interview from a summer vacation scheme interview to a TC interview.

    In my case, they were extraordinarily generous and interviewed me for a TC instead.

    Consequently, I'm afraid I can't quite help you with your first question. Additionally, unfortunately, I can't advise on the second question - I don't have the figures. However, I would not worry too much about that. Focus on the route that is best for you.

    Luckily, to help, I can describe some pros and cons of applying via each route (in abstraction):

    Applying for a vacation scheme:
    + You get to experience the firm for yourself (work, people, culture, and so on). No amount of research online is a sufficient replacement. This will help you to determine whether the firm is the right fit for you (and you for the firm).
    + You get some excellent work experience.
    - It is, naturally, a lengthier process when it comes to securing the TC.

    Applying for a TC:
    + It is a faster process if you just have the "end goal" in mind (namely, the TC).
    - You will not garner all the benefits as part of a vacation scheme.

    However, some things to note. I had already had some work experience with A&O before applying to them. Hence, although, sadly, my circumstances did not allow me to go for the vacation scheme (which I would have really enjoyed in itself!), I was still comfortable and, naturally, elated, to interview for a TC directly.

    And finally, yes, from my perspective it seems like the application process is similar (online application form, situational judgement test, and final assessment centre).
     
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    lawstudent12345

    Distinguished Member
    Feb 16, 2021
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    What is this approach sorry for asking but I don't know what this approach is.
    It means generally that lawyers at the firm are given the chance to do a range of work within their practice area (I believe)

    Are there any disadvantages to a firm using a multi-specialist approach? I see a lot of advantages, but would appreciate any insight regarding the opposite.
    I think one disadvantage is that it takes longer to become good at a specific area - lawyers at other firms will have done that type of work many times but you may have only done it once or twice
     
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