TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[Mike Wazaoski]

Has anyone completed a final training contract interview at Penningtons Manches Cooper? Any insight would be appreciated. I know it includes a case study and interview

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

Hi @Jessica Booker , can I please PM you. Basically, this is about an AC that I just got. I am based outside of the UK and the firm just got back to me saying all their assessment centers are physical.

 

[chlawstudent]

1. Understand the Objective​

• Your task will likely assess your ability to analyse information, structure your thoughts, and communicate effectively. Focus on clarity, logic, and relevance in your answers.
• Read the instructions carefully—ensure you know what’s being asked and stick to the brief.

2. Structure Your Response​

• Introduction: Summarise the key issue or problem. Show you’ve understood the scenario and its importance.
• Body: Break down your analysis into clear sections. Use headings if allowed. Address risks, opportunities, and potential solutions or recommendations.
• Conclusion: Provide a succinct summary or final recommendation. Keep it practical and aligned with the client’s or firm’s priorities.

3. Prioritise Key Points​

• Time management is crucial. Skim the materials first to understand what’s relevant and avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary details.
• Use bullet points or concise paragraphs to make your analysis clear and easy to follow.

4. Demonstrate Commercial Awareness​

• Tie your recommendations to real-world implications. For example, consider risks like reputational damage, compliance issues, or client impact.
• Show an understanding of the firm’s priorities (e.g., the firm's expertise in disputes, infrastructure, or financial services).

5. Proofread​

• If time allows, review your work for grammar, clarity, and completeness before submitting. Errors can distract from your message.

Stay calm, focus on structuring your thoughts, and you’ll handle it well. Good luck—you’re more prepared than you think! 😊

This is really helpful, thank you so much!

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hi @Jessica Booker , can I please PM you. Basically, this is about an AC that I just got. I am based outside of the UK and the firm just got back to me saying all their assessment centers are physical.

You can but I am technically out of the office until Wednesday 21 May so might be slow in replying!

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

You can but I am technically out of the office until Wednesday 21 May so might be slow in replying!

Thank you, I have PM'd. Looking forward to your response, ofcourse whenever you get the time.

 

[mostlyLsrareWs]

Also, is there any chance anyone has any tips or advice for completing an online written case study? I have never done one before and I have the KN one tomorrow so I'm a bit nervous!

Hi, I've got mine on the 17th. Is it okay if I reach out to you for some advice once you're finished with the test?

 

[mostlyLsrareWs]

1. Understand the Objective​

• Your task will likely assess your ability to analyse information, structure your thoughts, and communicate effectively. Focus on clarity, logic, and relevance in your answers.
• Read the instructions carefully—ensure you know what’s being asked and stick to the brief.

2. Structure Your Response​

• Introduction: Summarise the key issue or problem. Show you’ve understood the scenario and its importance.
• Body: Break down your analysis into clear sections. Use headings if allowed. Address risks, opportunities, and potential solutions or recommendations.
• Conclusion: Provide a succinct summary or final recommendation. Keep it practical and aligned with the client’s or firm’s priorities.

3. Prioritise Key Points​

• Time management is crucial. Skim the materials first to understand what’s relevant and avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary details.
• Use bullet points or concise paragraphs to make your analysis clear and easy to follow.

4. Demonstrate Commercial Awareness​

• Tie your recommendations to real-world implications. For example, consider risks like reputational damage, compliance issues, or client impact.
• Show an understanding of the firm’s priorities (e.g., the firm's expertise in disputes, infrastructure, or financial services).

5. Proofread​

• If time allows, review your work for grammar, clarity, and completeness before submitting. Errors can distract from your message.

Stay calm, focus on structuring your thoughts, and you’ll handle it well. Good luck—you’re more prepared than you think! 😊

Thanks for this, it is really insightful!

 

[EG3]

Has anyone completed a final training contract interview at Penningtons Manches Cooper? Any insight would be appreciated. I know it includes a case study and interview

Is this for DTC? When did you hear back?

 

[LawInTheNorth]

Who is still waiting to hear back from BM following VI?

 

[Tintin06]

Fried Frank's deadline is next week.

How quick are they to respond?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

[congrades]

Yeah I feel the same about it!

My gosh guys I did the Baker McKenzie video interview and wow those questions were insane! I’m not sure if the difficulty is ramped up tenfold for direct TC compared to VS because I found those questions much more difficult than any other video interview I’ve done. Not even mad when I get rejected I am in full admiration of anyone with good confident answers to those 😭

I thought the same, they caught me so off-guard! Did either of you hear back x

 

[LawInTheNorth]

I thought the same, they caught me so off-guard! Did either of you hear back x

Nothing so far, thinking it’s a PFO considering others have an AC invite now

 

[Newton]

Also, is there any chance anyone has any tips or advice for completing an online written case study? I have never done one before and I have the KN one tomorrow so I'm a bit nervous!

Also, is there any chance anyone has any tips or advice for completing an online written case study? I have never done one before and I have the KN one tomorrow so I'm a bit nervous!

Keep an eye on time management and answer the question directly. Let me know how it goes!

 

[bored7887]

Hello, very fortunate to have received an Ashurst Interview invite post case study, it's competency/motivations based, anyone have any advice on Ashurst specific interviews? I've interview here about 4 years ago for a VS so not sure how this might differ? Thanks!!

 

[lawzade02]

Thank you! I have no clue, these things are never really clear :/ I hope you get it!

Thank you!

 

[BillSikes]

Anyone head back from Penningtons (PMC)?

 

[bluescarf]

Anyone head back from Penningtons (PMC)?

I think it's been said before that last year no one heard back til June so I'm not really expecting anything - think that person yesterday may have been asking following VS? Not 100% sure though

 

[ZNadeem]

Hello, very fortunate to have received an Ashurst Interview invite post case study, it's competency/motivations based, anyone have any advice on Ashurst specific interviews? I've interview here about 4 years ago for a VS so not sure how this might differ? Thanks!!

Congratulations on your interview invite at Ashurst! From personal experience, their interview is largely motivational and competency-based, so make sure you’re ready to discuss your reasons for applying to Ashurst, your interest in their practice areas, and how your skills align with their values. Revisit your application and prepare to elaborate on any examples or experiences you’ve mentioned.

That said, Ashurst interviews often include a commercial element as well. Be prepared to discuss a recent news story or deal that interests you. Focus on demonstrating your understanding of the broader commercial implications and your ability to think critically about challenges or opportunities.

Good luck—you’ve got this! 😊

 

[chlawstudent]

Has anyone completed the KN case study yet today? Mine was due to be sent at 12:30 (I was sent a confirmation email about this yesterday), however I have not received it yet?

I have emailed them, but I'm starting to get quite stressed as the time goes on.

 

[LawLawMcGraw]

Did anyone else get the recall email from KN?