• 📅 2025–26 Applications: Vacation Schemes, Open Days & Training Contracts

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    Vacation Schemes
    Rolling vs non-rolling checklist included.
    Open Days & Insight Schemes
    Comprehensive list across top firms.
    Training Contracts
    All key TC deadlines in one place.
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  1. Amma Usman

    Clifford Chance Spark

    Hey there, The fact you don‘t have much legal knowledge is totally fine. In fact, you are not expected to have much as a first-year law/second year non-law student anyway. A large part of the AC will be business-related, and testing your commercial awareness. You will also likely be tested on...
  2. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    HOW TO RESEARCH A LAW FIRM - A SHORT 3-STEP APPROACH: I completely understand how overwhelming all the information on law firms can be, and having a good research strategy truly helps with navigating that. I have included one approach below. The first step is understanding the structure of law...
  3. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I’m sorry about this. You’re doing better than you think. Showing up and continuing to apply, even when it feels like nothing’s working, takes serious resilience. Keep backing yourself! For video interviews, here are some tips that might help: 1. Know your story. Have clear reasons for...
  4. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    You could use the approach I put above to highlight who the competitors are in the first place. This gives direction to your answer. Then, you could within those sectors identify any niches, which make the firm standout.
  5. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I think it‘ll be good to combine both a sector-based analysis and a size and market positioning analysis. Starting with the sector-based approach is logical because Browne Jacobson is well known for its work in specific areas such as health, education, insurance, local and central government...
  6. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Generally, I’d say there is not really much to prepare for with regards most law firms - a lot of it will be on the job. That said, having a good grasp of certain key things beforehand will help. For example, for some firms, you will be asked to choose your seat preferences beforehand. From a...
  7. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Wow, congratulations on the Bates Wells VS offer! It’s amazing how things work out when you least expect it, and this is just the beginning of many more exciting opportunities to come your way. You’ve earned it, and I hope you take a moment to really appreciate how far you’ve come...
  8. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    It’s completely normal to feel this way right now, but try to see this as a sign that you’re on the right path. Being told you were close means that they saw your potential, your skills, and your ability to succeed. That recognition is huge, and it’s something you can build on. Use this moment...
  9. Amma Usman

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    I think it depends on the word count. If it’s around 50-75 words, focusing on one hobby or interest makes sense, as it gives you enough space to explain why it interests you, how you’ve developed it, and any skills you’ve gained from it. However, if you have the flexibility, I’d recommend...
  10. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I would recommend sending an email in this situation. It allows you to follow up professionally while giving them the space to respond when convenient. An email also helps ensure your message is clear and documented, which is often preferable when enquiring about opportunities like this.
  11. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi there, I have quoted some posts I have made in the past to help.
  12. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya. Have they told you what the AC will be based on/ any components to focus on like written exercises, competency interviews, etc?
  13. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Yay huge congrats! I’ve dug out a 2018 interview insight from TCLA linked here - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/experience/browne-jacobson/ Given it may have changed in some aspects, I have linked some insights form the firm’s grad rec website here. The stages are largely similar but I...
  14. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Love to see this Rapunzel! What a lovely way to start off the week.. this is the energy the world needs! The name is also really befitting haha!
  15. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Given it is an informal work experience you are requesting, I am guessing there is no exact date published on the firm’s website. Assuming there was a date on the website, then a reasonable time to follow-up, in my opinion, is 3-6 weeks beforehand. However, as the firm will need to accommodate...
  16. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    This is usually the case, where your performance on the scheme is equally important. The assessment centre at the end will usually focus on drawing on your experiences from the scheme, as well as other firm-specific components and they will likely guide you on how to prepare for this beforehand...
  17. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Love to see it. This is a culmination of many years of hard work and dedication - you should be very proud of yourself. Hope you celebrate well!
  18. Amma Usman

    Training contract in just one area of law?

    Hey there, Just to follow up from Jess’ response, if this is something you’re interested in…Milbank has a LevFin TC. You could consider applying for it when they open.
  19. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way, but I just want to remind you that getting to the assessment center stage multiple times is a huge achievement in itself. It means your applications are strong, and firms are seeing potential in you! It's absolutely normal to feel like you're doing...
  20. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I think it depends on the conditions of your offer letter and what you can and can’t do after signing. If you decide to go ahead with the interview for the second firm and they ask whether you have accepted another offer, there is no point in not stating that you have. The only follow-up...

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