TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Kenomy]

Did anyone here apply for Transport for London training contract?

 

[user1738]

If they would pick DLA Piper over CMS I don’t think it’s morally wrong!

@user1738 I have seen this on DLA’s FAQs, not sure if this is a circumstance they could consider a direct TC route for, may be worth asking?

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Hi, thank you for this! I would actually pick CMS over DLA Piper. I’m extremely grateful + excited for the opportunity so I do appreciate the moral argument for not attending the VC.

My TC contract only restricts work carried once my TC is over, it does not mention anything re schemes before my start date in 2027.

I am not sure about restrictions re the VS. Is it worth asking Early Careers?

 

[nonlawstudent98]

Hi, thank you for this! I would actually pick CMS over DLA Piper. I’m extremely grateful + excited for the opportunity so I do appreciate the moral argument for not attending the VC.

My TC contract only restricts work carried once my TC is over, it does not mention anything re schemes before my start date in 2027.

I am not sure about restrictions re the VS. Is it worth asking Early Careers?

If you have already secured your preferred TC then may I ask why you would still want to do the VS?

 

[user1738]

If you have already secured your preferred TC then may I ask why you would still want to do the VS?

I mean it’s valuable experience, good exposure to how an international law firm operates, boosts my CV etc…

 

[summersun]

I mean it’s valuable experience, good exposure to how an international law firm operates, boosts my CV etc…

not sure it really boosts you CV once you do your TC but in any case its your decision

 

[nonlawstudent98]

not sure it really boosts you CV once you do your TC but in any case its your decision

Agreed. You aren't going to be putting previous vacation schemes on your CV. It would be a different story if you hadn't yet accepted the TC but personally I wouldn't risk losing it. Also, my view would be to give someone else the chance to complete the VS who hasn't yet been offered a TC!

 

[Futuretrainee002]

I mean it’s valuable experience, good exposure to how an international law firm operates, boosts my CV etc…

Also just wanna add that DLA is one of the few firms with an active waitlist for their VS, so if you already have a TC then I’d recommend letting someone else have a chance. Of course it’s completely up to you and no matter what you choose there is no wrong answer

 

[user1738]

Also just wanna add that DLA is one of the few firms with an active waitlist for their VS, so if you already have a TC then I’d recommend letting someone else have a chance. Of course it’s completely up to you and no matter what you choose there is no wrong answer

I’m sensing a strong general consensus haha I appreciate the advice! I will probably be declining the VS considering everything.

 

[trainee1012]

Has anyone heard back from DTC for Goodwin?

 

[trainee1012]

Has Goodwin given out any direct tc offers yet?

Hey! May I ask if you have heard back?

 

[trainee1012]

Have Goodwin given out any DTC offers post-AC?

Hey! May I ask if you heard back / know anyone who has heard back yet?