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Search results

  1. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    Got the same strengths! Collaboration was my weakness which doesn’t seem good at all. However, I did progress with one cappfinity where I got ‘Relationship Builder’ as my weakness. I think progression depends on your actual marks across the different criteria they look for, and whether...
  2. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    I’ve listed my upcoming VS’ on my direct TC applications because I’m hoping they make me standout. I think the pros of listing yours will probably outweigh any downside. They’re more likely to think A) you’re a good candidate which another firm has identified and B) you might not have applied...
  3. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    Just a feedback report 1-2 days later.
  4. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    It’s a cappfinity I think. So it’ll be situational judgement questions and maybe some critical thinking/maths but that depends on the preferences of the law firm. I’ve got 3 of them to do so I may have more insights this weekend. 😅
  5. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    What a week. I’ve sent out applications to Ashurst, Baker McKenzie, Mayer Brown, Farrer & Co and Shoosmiths. Now can enjoy a few hours break this evening. 😅🫡
  6. James Wakefield

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Also 15 minute TI is longer than any of my VIs. No idea what they’ll ask us. I’ll also have to do the call in my lunch break during my VS next week.
  7. James Wakefield

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    My motivation for this is the chance to meet you haha.
  8. James Wakefield

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Macfarlanes Dinner interview invite post-test! 😅 I can't believe there are so many stages for a dinner!
  9. James Wakefield

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I’d have a look at BCLP’s retention rate… I believe it’s been very low over the last few years. They’ve also just announced they are closing their Asian offices too.
  10. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    Hey can I ask how long it took to get the first test? Also, when did you get the VI? Thanks!
  11. James Wakefield

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I got a VS last year and my AC interview was scheduled for 50 minutes, and didn’t last more than 30.
  12. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    @Jessica Booker can I ask your thoughts on this?
  13. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    This makes me feel better. Thank you. 😅
  14. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    One of my 20 or so references in my Baker McKenzie app is ‘Baker Mckenzie’. Is my application doomed? 😕
  15. James Wakefield

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Anyone heard back about the Macfarlanes dinner?
  16. James Wakefield

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    They’ll receive 50% of their applications over the next couple of days. I doubt they have stopped sending out their automatic tests- as they’ll be inundated with emails from people applying. I’m sure we’ll get it! 🤞

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.

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