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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

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TCLA Community Assistant

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Aug 1, 2019
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Hi! I am doing a vacation scheme at the end of July and would be beginning a conversion course soon after. If I am offered a training contract off the back of my VS, they will fund my conversion course but if not, I will have to fund it myself. There’s a very short time between finding out if I get a TC and starting a conversion course - does anyone have any tips as to how I should approach this? Should I enrol in the selected course that the firm I am doing my VS at uses? Is there a chance that places run out if I leave it too late? I would be grateful for any insights thank you 😊
The GDL is highly unlikely to run out of places. They typically only fill around 50-70% of their places each year and are likely to still be selling the courses in the weeks leading up to the programme starting.

I would speak to the firm you are doing a vacation scheme with to see what their process is for GDL courses. Some firms no longer put trainees through the GDL. Others do, and may have a preferred supplier, but may just reimburse you what they would have paid their supplier if you are committed to a course. Worthwhile speaking to them to get advice on how they would navigate the situation.

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TCLA Community Assistant

Legendary Member
TCLA Moderator
Gold Member
Graduate Recruitment
Premium Member
Forum Team
Aug 1, 2019
15,526
21,761
If a firm only offers TCs to roughly 4-6 out of 12-18 vac schemers, how exactly do you stand out beyond doing good work and being likeable? Feeling nervous as it will be my only VS and I really want to convert!
As you are a Gold subscriber, I recommend looking at our Accelerator content which is specifically for this topic.
 

legalskills44

Standard Member
Jan 20, 2025
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The GDL is highly unlikely to run out of places. They typically only fill around 50-70% of their places each year and are likely to still be selling the courses in the weeks leading up to the programme starting.

I would speak to the firm you are doing a vacation scheme with to see what their process is for GDL courses. Some firms no longer put trainees through the GDL. Others do, and may have a preferred supplier, but may just reimburse you what they would have paid their supplier if you are committed to a course. Worthwhile speaking to them to get advice on how they would navigate the situation.

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Thank you very much, this is so helpful! I’ll have a chat to the firm to see what they suggest.
 
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