• Osborne Clarke is live in the forum now
    AMA Live now
    Graduate Recruitment from Osborne Clarke is here to answer your questions.
    Join the live thread →

Ask Osborne Clarke Anything!

Flu1dity

Standard Member
Aug 2, 2024
7
16
Hello Patrick,

Thank you very much for your time today on the forum.

How strict is the 12-24 month period on the first question of the vacation scheme application? I gained some relevant legal experience between July-September 2023 that would strengthen my application. I appreciate that it took place just outside the window as it was 25-27 months ago. Would this be acceptable to include on the long form question?

Thanks in advance for your advice.
 

Olivia1234

Standard Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Nov 13, 2023
5
0
Osborne Clarke" data-source="post: 218513" class="bbCodeBlock bbCodeBlock--expandable bbCodeBlock--quote js-expandWatch">
Hi Olivia,

We do not have a minimum requirement to apply and nor do we have a preference of Russell or non Russell group candidates.

In terms of A-level, we do not use these and may only refer back to them if there is a close call between candidates.

As mentioned, to some other questions. The answers and VRT are they key factors when we are initially considering your application.

Hope thats ok!
That’s really helpful, thank you!
 

Patrick - Osborne Clarke

Well-Known Member
Graduate Recruitment
Oct 6, 2025
22
7
Hi Patrick, thank you for taking the time out of your day to answer our questions. Are there any particular qualities or experiences Osborne Clarke values most in successful training contract applicants?

Kind regards,
Paige
Hi Paige,

Thanks for your question.

I think something that is often overlooked in applications is making sure you're doing the basics right! E.g communicating clearly, attention to detail, well structured answers.

We don't have a particular "type" of candidate. It's really important to be yourself and to make it clear your individual motivations. Any experiences or previous jobs will some have transferable skills.

Something that is really important is to make it clear why you are committed to career in commercial law and why you are committed or aligned with a firm like OC.

It's important to say that we dont need someone who is a ready made solicitor but someone who shows the skills and enthusiasm for the role!
 
  • Like
Reactions: P98

Patrick - Osborne Clarke

Well-Known Member
Graduate Recruitment
Oct 6, 2025
22
7
Hello Patrick,

Thank you very much for your time today on the forum.

How strict is the 12-24 month period on the first question of the vacation scheme application? I gained some relevant legal experience between July-September 2023 that would strengthen my application. I appreciate that it took place just outside the window as it was 25-27 months ago. Would this be acceptable to include on the long form question?

Thanks in advance for your advice.
Hello!

Thanks for your question.

If you feel it is relevant and would strengthen your application, I would recommend using it. :)
 
  • Like
Reactions: Flu1dity

nic_gabriella

New Member
Oct 6, 2025
1
0
Hi Patrick,

I hope you're having a great day, and thanks for giving us this opportunity!

I just have a few short questions:

1) I am a career changer pivoting from consulting to law (I hold a UK LLB and just completed an LLM). In this case, would a direct training contract be more suitable than the vacation scheme program?

2) What would you say is a team-building or community outreach initiative that you are most proud of during your tenure at Osborne Clark's Bristol Office?

Thanks, and I look forward to submitting my application.

Best regards,
Nicole
 

Patrick - Osborne Clarke

Well-Known Member
Graduate Recruitment
Oct 6, 2025
22
7
Hi Patrick,

What would you say is the biggest mistake candidates make during the application process, and your tips to avoid this.
Hi Tamara,

Good question :)

I think there are a couple of common mistakes:

1. I think people are so focussed on the topic or making it sound good they forget the basics, spelling (spell the firm's name correctly), clear structure...
2. Be careful using GPT, while its great for certain things, over or incorrect use can make your application sound like anyone else's.
3. Spend the time on the applications you really want to work at, it REALLY comes across
4. It is not a test of legal knowledge but your awareness of what is going on commercially and how this feeds into a commercial law firms work.

Application forms are difficult and the above make it sound simple but they are essential to a successful application. ALSO, every firm looks for something different, it's really important to understand the firm you are applying to.

Hope that helps and good luck!
 

Patrick - Osborne Clarke

Well-Known Member
Graduate Recruitment
Oct 6, 2025
22
7
Hi Patrick,

I hope you're having a great day, and thanks for giving us this opportunity!

I just have a few short questions:

1) I am a career changer pivoting from consulting to law (I hold a UK LLB and just completed an LLM). In this case, would a direct training contract be more suitable than the vacation scheme program?

2) What would you say is a team-building or community outreach initiative that you are most proud of during your tenure at Osborne Clark's Bristol Office?

Thanks, and I look forward to submitting my application.

Best regards,
Nicole
Hi Nicole,

Thanks for your questions.

1. In all honesty, I always recommend a Vac Scheme. Not only is it a great opportunity for you to enhance your application, it is really important to make sure we are the right firm for you to train with e.g do you like the work, the people, the environment... so if you can I would highly recommend!

2. There is so much going on at OC and I can genuinely say there is something for everyone to get involved in no matter your interest. I've been involved in couple of things related to my role including something called The Bridge which works with disadvantaged schools in our office's locale providing them with careers and application advice. I have also ran careers sessions with refugees looking to enter the legal sector after resettling in the UK and also worked with ex-armed forces personnel transitioning out of the services. This has been really rewarding and interesting development.
From another side, I ran the Bristol 10K alongside some of my colleagues raising money for our location charity which was great!
On a side note, we have a wide range of networks covering social mobility, age, gender, pride and neurodiversity. We also have a run club, I do weekly spin classes in our studio with some of my team and there are sessions running throughout the year for different events or religious holidays.

Hope that gives you the insights you need!
 

About Us

The Corporate Law Academy (TCLA) was founded in 2018 because we wanted to improve the legal journey. We wanted more transparency and better training. We wanted to form a community of aspiring lawyers who care about becoming the best version of themselves.

Newsletter

Discover the most relevant business news, access our law firm analysis, and receive our best advice for aspiring lawyers.