TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Abbie Whitlock]

Also any tips on how to answer this: If someone were to read your story so far, what would make them think, ‘This person belongs at Macfarlanes’? 300 words - unsure on how much detail to put re the firm vs myself

Hi!

I have previously made a post on this question - I have quoted it below! Hopefully it is a useful starting point for answering the question, but just shout if you have any questions

Hello!

I think the best way to approach it is to treat it like a narrative. A structure that could work well is:

1. Start with your story so far - highlight a couple of key experiences or decisions that have shaped your interest in law and Macfarlanes specifically (e.g. academics, work experience, or even something outside of law).
2. Draw out the qualities they reveal - look at the qualities that Macfarlanes places a lot of emphasis on, and show these through your story.
3. Connect to the firm - end by tying it back to why those qualities / experiences mean you'd thrive at Macfarlanes. For instance, if your story shows you enjoy variety, link it to their broad practice areas, etc.

I would avoid simply listing achievements or traits - it's important to weave them into a personal narrative that feels authentic. I'd focus on showing that your journey and career aspirations naturally align with what Macfarlanes are looking for

I hope that assists!

 

[livelaughlawve]

Here's hoping I do better on HL stage 2 than FF...

 

[Ams4567]

Hey guys, does anyone know if BCLP still do an innovation seat during their TC? I can see that they introduced it in like 2024/5 but don't want to include it in my app if it's not being run anymore.

 

[hmevey]

Hi!

I have previously made a post on this question - I have quoted it below! Hopefully it is a useful starting point for answering the question, but just shout if you have any questions

Thank you! That's super useful

 

[hmevey]

I haven't even heard back for summer vac post SJT - assuming its a long drawn out PFO 😪

Okay i'm still waiting post sjt for a dtc eel but im going to hold out hope !! We've got this

 

[Rosie_Kitten]

Just checking, after hl stage 2 test did anybody receive a confirmation email for submission?

 

[nfe00001]

Anyone hear back from Charles Russell Speechly or Lewis Silkin about DTC application?

 

[SueD]

Anyone hear back from Charles Russell Speechly or Lewis Silkin about DTC application?

Nothing from either.

 

[byHisgrace]

Just checking, after hl stage 2 test did anybody receive a confirmation email for submission?

Haven’t done it yet but will let you know if I receive one when I do. Would you be able to share what the vibe of VI questions is? Are they more situational/behavioural or are they more motivational?

 

[Applicant7874652]

McDermott PFO x

 

[Laurel Lance - Black Canary]

McDermott PFO post app, finally after 109 days of waiting.

 

[give.me.a.tc]

If we havent received the Stage 2 test yet for HL is it safe to assume PFO?

Yes it is

 

[Dogecoin GC]

Also any tips on how to answer this: If someone were to read your story so far, what would make them think, ‘This person belongs at Macfarlanes’? 300 words - unsure on how much detail to put re the firm vs myself

Okay, so I did this question last week.

I think it’s about having a narrative that fits with the law, the firm, and you being a good fit for both.

For my part, I talked about working with clients as a trusted advisor and compared this to the firms private client practice.

Your answers will vary, obviously. All that said, it’s good to see they’ve changed their questions a bit.

I like how this one is quite specific to the firm and phrased in a pretty original way.

Do I expect to pass? Hell no - I have never passed the McFarlane’s but at least there’s a different type of question which helps me polish my narrative and journey which I can apply to other firms to some extent.

 

[cinnamonspice]

Weightmans PFO! Shocking tbh, did not expect that this early

 

[hmevey]

If we havent received the Stage 2 test yet for HL is it safe to assume PFO?

when did you do the first test?

 

[stephiedunns]

Just got the HL job sim invite minutes ago!

Is this for the TC or VS?

 

[hmevey]

Same!

when did everyone do the tests, i'm nerv now

 

[TheSaulGoodman]

when did everyone do the tests, i'm nerv now

I did stage 1 on Feb 6th - for cappfinity scores I had work ethic and innovation as top 2 and my lowest was resilience

 

[AryanAgg]

Does anyone know the timeline for linklaters and dentons?

 

[Laurel Lance - Black Canary]

Is this for the TC or VS?

Hi! I posted it on direct TC thread, so yes it is!