• What’s it actually like to be a trainee solicitor?
    Follow our TCLA member as they progress through their training contract at a leading international law firm.

    Read their journey here →

Reply to thread

Hiya [USER=27428]@billyonthespeeddial[/USER]


I just wanted to add to what [USER=37324]@James Wakefield[/USER] and others have said, I really think you should mention the vacation scheme in your application and not worry about it being seen as a negative. Firms are very aware that not everyone has the flexibility to take time off easily, especially if you're working full time. It's hard enough as it is to get the necessary leave to do a single vacation scheme. That was certainly the case for me too. I was lucky that my manager gave me the green light to take back-to-back vacation schemes, but that only happened because I’d saved up leave all year specifically for that purpose and having discussed this with her months in advance. I know that kind of flexibility isn’t always possible, and many firms are aware of this too!


Having a vacation scheme on your CV, especially at a competitive firm, is a real strength. It shows you're already being recognised as a strong candidate and that you’ve had experience working in a firm environment. That speaks volumes, even if the vacation scheme isn't with HFW. What matters most is the strength of your application, i.e. your reasons for applying, and the transferable skills and insights you’ve gained from that experience. Definitely apply, and don’t feel you need to apologise for circumstances outside your control! Good luck!


Our company is called, "The Corporate ___ Academy". What is the missing word here?

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.

Newsletter

Discover the most relevant business news, access our law firm analysis, and receive our best advice for aspiring lawyers.