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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Hi @Abbie Whitlock @Andrei Radu
What is the general procedure if you've been accepted into a Summer VS, but still have a few applications being considered for other Summer VS. Could you ask them to reconsider you to Spring? Is it worth reaching out now, even before they've decided to progress my application?
What is the general procedure if you've been accepted into a Summer VS, but still have a few applications being considered for other Summer VS. Could you ask them to reconsider you to Spring? Is it worth reaching out now, even before they've decided to progress my application?
For what it’s worth I did the test on 13/11 and the feedback report said my strengths were Commercial Thinking and Working with Others and my weakness was Leadership.
I’ve not heard anything back at all though so assuming PFO.
Those are good results.
I think Resource and work management and leadership are two skills that develop the further you get into your career especially as firms hire people as young as 19 they won’t be expecting a leader but rather a team player.
I’ve attached their framework for you to look at.
Attachments
Thanks for the insight!
Regarding the PFO...
From what I heard from them via the Open Day, they don't read application until after the deadline (and 5 more days to allow last day applicants finish the WGT).
So I would encourage you to stay hopeful ♥️
It’s non rolling you wouldn’t hear back until at least 08/12 as that’s when the last WGT can be done by those who applied on the deadline.
Oh my days I thought I flunked my AOS AC but I just got a call
On the back of my CC PFO this has just made my day
On the back of my CC PFO this has just made my day
yess a VS - sadly CC was my only DTC lol - and thank you!
Hi!
Congratulations on the AC invite!! I'm happy to share a few general tips that might be useful!
With 30 minutes to prepare, I would aim to define one key message you want them to take from your presentation, and then build 2-3 clear points around it. You don't need loads of detail - clarity and structure will be much more powerful.
Whilst it'll depend on the exact task, a simple structure you could use:
- Introduction: briefly introduce yourself and outline what you'll cover so they know what to expect. You could start by acknowledging the task or scenario they gave you and summarising it in your own words. This shows understanding straight away and makes the direction of your presentation clear. In terms of starting, I would say that a calm and confident start is a good way to engage the room - even things such as taking a moment, making eye contact, and speaking clearly helps draw attention.
- Context and Problem Understanding: I would explain the situation in your own words as you understand it, and highlight why it matters or what the key challenge is within it. This is a good way to demonstrate your analytical thinking.
- Your Approach and Solution: walk them through your thought process and the steps that you would take. I'd give a little reasoning behind each point, as they are often interested in how you think, rather than just the conclusion. If if fits, it might help to add a simple example or comparison to make it relatable
- Recommendation and Next Steps: I'd be clear about what you would do and the impact that it should have in the long-term. Make sure to keep this realistic and actionable, as it will need to have practical workability.
- Summary: end your presentation with a short recap of your main message and summarising the key points - a concise and confident conclusion will leave a stronger impression than trying to cram loads in!
In terms of engaging with them during the presentation, I can totally relate as I was never particularly confident in presentations and public speaking! A few tips that I started to adopt:
- Make eye contact with different people as you speak, as this helps hold their attention and shows that you are engaged
- Use your voice - I always used to speak too quickly and try and get it 'over and done with' (which isn't the best method!). You can use slight pauses, vary your pace, and place an emphasis on key lines to keep it dynamic.
- Ask a light rhetorical question or invite them to consider something (such as "we might ask ourselves..." or "one thing to think about is...") - this gets them mentally involved without actually needing a response
- Bring energy and interest - show some genuine enthusiasm for the topic you are presenting on!
Overall, I'd focus on being structured, clear, and human! You don't need to be flashy, and they aren't expecting an expert public speaker - just show how you think and communicate confidently in your presentation.
I hope that helps, and good luck!!
Ah my bad, didn’t know if it was like the FF process with a stage 1 and a stage 2. Thanks for the info 👍
Hi!
Congratulations on getting the Summer VS offer - that's an amazing achievement! I was in a similar position last year, so I can share what I did and overall what my advice would be.
Firms often have some flexibility, so you can absolutely ask about moving to the Spring scheme. This is what I ended up doing, and ended up securing the Spring scheme for the firm that I moved (so it won't disadvantage you!). It's reasonable to ask whether they'd consider switching you - it's not guaranteed, but it's definitely not an unusual question.
If you do reach out, keep it polite and positive - I would encourage you to reach out as soon as possible, even before they've decided to progress your application (as that is what I did). The key factor is communication and transparency, and there's no harm in politely inquiring - the worst thing they can say is no!
Good luck with the rest of your applications!
@Abbie Whitlock Hi Abbie! How would you advise answering "Why should we offer you a place on the __ Vacation Scheme?" if there is also another question on the application form asking "tell us why you wish to pursue a legal career at ___"?
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