TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[AlarmedBookkeeper448]

Can anyone help with the timeline for RS because I was under the impression if you were successful you would be starting the SQE this August? Did people understand that the same way?

I thought so too cause I saw this on the bright network website and I saw it on the forum as well … so you’re not going crazy 🙂

Eligibility​

This vacancy is open to those available to start a GDL (if applicable) or SQE course in August 2025, or who have fully or partially completed SQE.

On this website: https://www.brightnetwork.co.uk/graduate-jobs/reed-smith/direct-training-contract-2025

 

[trainee4u]

The SQE is a 12-month long course so I think that will be the SQE start date (Mar 26 to Mar 27). The TC would begin in Mar 27.​

I don't think that is the case. March 2026 means starting work in the firm in March 2026

Also SQE isn't a course per se - there are two separate exams, SQE1 which is run in January and July, and SQE2 in January, April, July, October.

The delay can be waiting for SQE2 results - these take 4 months, so e.g., if you got a TC offer now and had no SQE, then:

October - December learn SQE1
January SQE1
April SQE2
August SQE2 results (so about 10 months)
September 2026 start TC

In my recent VS some people had done non-law with no (P)GDL, some had done SQE1+SQE2, and some had done SQE1 only.

So if you had done SQE1, then potentially:
July TC offer
by 28 July enrol on SQE2 prep course with Ulaw
October sit SQE2
24 Feburary 2026 - SQE2 results published
March 2026 - start TC

The firm noted that they might offer for:

September 2025 (subject to business need, and the candidate having passed SQE2)
March 2026
September 2026
March 2027
September 2027
depending on the candidate's current position

Some firms only offer TCs to people who have passed SQE1, and some only to people who have passed SQE1+SQE2.

So a March 2026 start would imply you've passed SQE1 and are going to enrol on SQE2 this month to sit it in October, OR you have already sat SQE2.

 

[LawInTheNorth]

I thought so too cause I saw this on the bright network website and I saw it on the forum as well … so you’re not going crazy 🙂

Eligibility​

This vacancy is open to those available to start a GDL (if applicable) or SQE course in August 2025, or who have fully or partially completed SQE.

On this website: https://www.brightnetwork.co.uk/graduate-jobs/reed-smith/direct-training-contract-2025

Thank you - I knew I had read that somewhere! But I have just checked their website and it is March 2026 - glad that is clarified!

 

[Equity'sDarling]

Perkins Coie LBA interview invite! But I have a TC offer so probably won't go through with it. It's sad to have to give up these interesting opportunities.

 

[tobywstress]

Perkins Coie LBA interview invite! But I have a TC offer so probably won't go through with it. It's sad to have to give up these interesting opportunities.

Congratulations! Do you mind telling when did the invite come through?

 

[BM99]

Does anyone know how long does it take for Macfarlanes to get back to applicants after the deadline?

 

[Peppermint tea]

Anyone hear from Haynes and Boone for the 2nd interview?

 

[Amma Usman]

Does anyone know how long does it take for Macfarlanes to get back to applicants after the deadline?

I’ve just seen that they recruit on a non-rolling basis, meaning they probably are taking time due to having to review the bulk of applications that came in. Due to this, I would not be worried if you haven’t heard back yet.

Apply - Macfarlanes

www.macfarlanes.com

 

[Amma Usman]

Perkins Coie LBA interview invite! But I have a TC offer so probably won't go through with it. It's sad to have to give up these interesting opportunities.

Congrats on both the TC offer and interview invite offer!

 

[Amma Usman]

Perkins Coie LBA interview invite! But I have a TC offer so probably won't go through with it. It's sad to have to give up these interesting opportunities.

Also, I really love the username haha! Land law memories lol!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi! Just been invited to the Reed Smith VI. Please DM me if you have any tips please! This is the last app of the year for me so it means a lot. Thank you x

This will help - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....de-for-competency-interview-preparation.9380/

Congrats on the invite!

 

[Amma Usman]

if anyone has any tips on RS VI, please let me know. I would be very very grateful, it is my last hope

A complete guide for competency interview preparation

This is a guide for the purposes of preparing for competency interviews, be they in a VI, another intermediary step or an AC/final stage interview. The advice here is based on my personal approach, as I received VS offers from top US/MC firms 4/4 times I implemented it. This will include: A...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

That should help!

 

[Amma Usman]

Is the Reed Smith test/VI pretty much automatic if you meet their minimum requirements as I don’t think anyone has got a PFO?

I have tagged @ReedSmithBecca to help with this.

 

[PQ]

I know so many people have asked at this point but has anyone heard back from Bakers post AC. I’m starting to freak out.

 

[a1024]

@Amma Usman @Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam @Chris Brown Hi! What would you guys recommend working on this month and next month to prepare for next cycle?

 

[studentdelaw786]

Anyone heard from Macfarlanes for direct TC?

 

[Amma Usman]

@Amma Usman @Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam @Chris Brown Hi! What would you guys recommend working on this month and next month to prepare for next cycle?

• Build your commercial awareness. Use digestible platforms like TCLA Academy, Finimize, and Investopedia. Try short articles in the morning, podcasts, or newsletters — test what sticks and build a habit around it.

• Reflect on last cycle. Did your applications not make it to interview stage? Or was it your interview or AC performance? Use any feedback you received and be honest with yourself — self-awareness is key.

• Revisit the basics: why law, why commercial law, and why each firm. If these answers aren’t personal to you, your applications will feel generic. No two people have the same motivations, so take time to journal and find yours.

• Believe in yourself. The cycle is tough, but your mindset needs to be tougher. Discipline will carry you through when motivation fades, and mindset is what creates that discipline.

• Prioritise your mental health. The stronger your mental health, the more energy and clarity you’ll have to submit quality applications. Don’t let this slip for too long — reset as often as needed.

 

[L177]

Hey, has anyone heard back from Michelmores DTC yet? Thanks!

I just got invited to take their online amberjack assessment today

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey guys, I have my first ever AC tomorrow. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Have they told you what the AC is comprised of? Perhaps we’ll be able to advise better from there. Otherwise, let us know and we’ll be happy to give you general AC tips on frequent components typically seen across firms

 

[sunshine101]

Congratulations! Do you mind telling when did the invite come through?

Hi,

Congratulations, when did you apply if you don't mind me asking? Was it close to the deadline?