TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[emma.d]

Hi all, do I need to finish the Macfarlanes test by midnight today or a week from today if I just received it? Thank you!!

 

[lawtc2026]

They’re still sending out invites then. I can understand people’s confusion here. What the app says after applying:

“The Graduate Recruitment Team will be in touch with an update on your application after the deadline closes.”

I feel like people heard before…

RS have said that you can expect to hear back within 4 weeks. They did clearly state they were recruiting on a rolling basis which means they review the applications as they are received so people who submitted theirs early will obviously hear back sooner. They are still sending out invites for those who submitted later so I wouldn't worry!

 

[TortillaTC]

RS have said that you can expect to hear back within 4 weeks. They did clearly state they were recruiting on a rolling basis which means they review the applications as they are received so people who submitted theirs early will obviously hear back sooner. They are still sending out invites for those who submitted later so I wouldn't worry!

Thank you for the information!!

 

[TortillaTC]

Hi all, do I need to finish the Macfarlanes test by midnight today or a week from today if I just received it? Thank you!!

You get 7 days so a week from today. It’s separate from the actual application deadline.

 

[InterestInPublicLaw]

Great question. Been in a similar situation myself. This may sound a bit obvious, but for the "tell us about yourself" question, focus on exactly what has been mentioned. They do say that you can go outside this scope, which is great, but I would personally start any answer by referencing one or more of those mentioned elements. There’s no need for an intro as it’s just 300 words and will eat up your word count, but starting with a thesis-like statement will help. So, for example, “I have taken part in many extracurriculars at university” – then you cover those in that little paragraph. Then move onto the next element and do the same in another paragraph. It’s not necessary to do this, but it helps with structure.

Another thing is that it is great you’ve listed some of these things in the work experience section, but remember that you may not have been able to touch on it in depth. In my opinion, the word count will never be fully enough to expand on these in the depth your application needs to bring it to life – and the additional question is giving you an extra green light to shed light on these even more. So, take your time with ensuring that you don't just “list”, but also expand and link to its relevance to the trainee role at Macfarlanes and their values. I remember once approaching a question like this by referencing skills, how I demonstrated them through past experiences, and then mentioning speaking to trainees at the firm who said XYZ, reinforcing my desire to train there. So, there are many ways to approach this question with whatever you choose to elaborate on. Just ask yourself: is it true to me, and does it sound convincing enough?

And yes, definitely worth highlighting those achievements!

Also, contrary to popular opinion, personal interests are actually really valued by law firms, but perhaps touch on those other main things at this point given the word limit, and shed more light on the personality-related point later down in the application stage if the needs of the situation demand it.

Thanks so much Amma, that's really helpful

 

[Amma Usman]

Any tips for how to improve on Amberjack just got my results for Reed Smith... excellent for verbal + numerical intellect but then 4 for grit, applied intellect and digital mindset. 6 for creative force.

Some past tips for SJTs - attached to this post.

 

[amrita6399]

Is K&L Gates DTC rolling, and also, it says that there is a verbal reasoning test, so does that need to be completed along with the application, or is it sent later by the Grad Rec team as the 2nd stage? A clarification on these points will be helpful. Thank you!

 

[Amma Usman]

Congratulations! Same background, hoping for the same soon.

Yep! I have seen many people with no immediate ties to the UK succeed in applications. Law firms value geographical diversity. Just be prepared to be asked the question of why law in the UK at an international firm, and not your home country. This question is often asked as law firms want to filter out candidates that are applying just on vibes but instead actually want to build a long-term career at these firms/ the country (considering the two-year TC is a development programme and an investment of a law firm into your professional development).

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey Team, I'm aware this is dependent on the firm, but at what stage in the recruitment process do academic/organisational referees get contacted?

Also, I was in a research project with a supervisor at University in a paid research internship, would my manager be suitable to put down as an academic referee? I worked closely with them and they will have more to comment on me than my actual lecturers.-It's still academic I guess (?) @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman - Thanks!

Hey,

This depends on the firm - you’re right. For example, I know Jones Day contacts referees before the first stage interview (to the best of my knowledge).

Though for most firms usually this will be prior to any onboarding process/ not long before you start the role/ vocational courses (depending on the firm, yet again).

Considering the role was a university-related research project which seemingly spins into the realm of academics, I believe that would work as a referee. However, ask the firm when the time is right to be sure. I do know, however, that usually academic referees are past professors, or tutorial leaders, or dissertation mentors, personal tutors, etc. So it’s worth keeping the latter in mind too.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey this is sort of unrelated (and congrats on the AC) but do you think it's still worth applying to HFW, or did anything indicate they've offered enough ACs to fill their intake? They're a dream firm for me but being employed distracted me from appreciating the fact that they're fully rolling. Thanks

I agree with @SamiyaJ - apply apply apply!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey would love to hear about your experience with the video interview if you’re open to sharing. No pressure at all, but I’d really appreciate any insight or tips. Happy to connect or chat if that works for you

If you’re looking for general VI tips, this thread will help greatly - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....de-for-competency-interview-preparation.9380/

 

[Amma Usman]

Can someone advise on whether they managed to access the link for the practice tests and if so How?

Hey, which practice tests are these? Perhaps I’ll be able to help better once confirmed.

 

[Amma Usman]

Finally have a TC offer! Just wanted to tell everyone to keep their heads up! I persisted long and hard hours and it's all been worth it in the end! Thank you so much to all of the TCLA community and to the many friends that have privately messaged me and exchanged advice (you know who you are), I will endeavour my best to pass my knowledge

This makes me SO HAPPY! Yay - huge congrats!

 

[Amma Usman]

'Why x firm?'

I was drawn to the work of x firm's [DEPARTMENT] when I collaborated with [NAME] on [DEAL]. I was impressed with their collaborative spirit, knowledge and creative ways we reached the deadline to our respective clients' satisfaction. From my experience here, I can see x firm as an excellent environment for me to learn and grow as a lawyer

This is extremely informative and straight to the point! thank you @FM302989

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi all, do I need to finish the Macfarlanes test by midnight today or a week from today if I just received it? Thank you!!

What was the wording included in the email which was sent with the test?

In any case, I usually submit these tests a day earlier just to be safe. Also email GR to confirm - just to flag there may be some delays in them getting back to you as it is a busy time for firms given VS’ and all.

 

[Amma Usman]

For anyone that may be interested, this is an excellent and extremely detailed guide on the SQE by one of our members @average_jo123 - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/sqe-tell-all-all-questions-welcome.9641/

Thank you for sharing all your experiences and being such a positive force in the forums!

 

[lizliczs]

Anyone heard back from Browne Jacobson post TI? I was told we would hear back w/c 23rd

Have you heard yet ?