TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Anastasia uzor]

Brabners AC lancashire office! Ahhh I'm so excited! Got a chance to fix my mistakes from last year. 🤞 this will be my last cycle

Hey I’m planning on applying next year, do you know what questions/type of qs were asked when you did it?

 

[j.a55293]

Just received SH SJT

 

[trainee4u]

Just received SH SJT

When did you apply!?
I just got one too and applied in February or something similarly absurd!

 

[j.a55293]

When did you apply!?
I just got one too and applied in February or something similarly absurd!

Think I applied a few days before the deadline in Feb - had assumed by now it was a rejection

 

[Gr33n]

Does anyone know if the video questions at the end of the SH test have unlimited preparation time?

 

[toad92]

Just received SH SJT

Me too, guessing they have gone through apps based on what placement scheme(s) you applied for, as I only applied for the second summer one

 

[toad92]

Anyone got any tips for SH SJT would be appreciated, got three final year exams in the next week and deadline is next weds for the test so my prep is going to be limited😭😭

 

[ZNadeem]

Anyone got any tips for SH SJT would be appreciated, got three final year exams in the next week and deadline is next weds for the test so my prep is going to be limited😭😭

Here are some effective tips for situation judgement tests (SJTs):

1. Understand the Test’s Purpose: SJTs assess how you handle workplace scenarios, so always prioritise answers that show good judgment, teamwork, professionalism, and adherence to company values. Think about what the firm values most (e.g., client service, collaboration).
2. Common Priorities:
   • Clients come first: If a scenario involves a client, prioritise their needs while remaining ethical.
   • Seek help when needed: If you're unsure, it’s usually better to ask a senior colleague or follow procedures rather than guess or act unethically.
   • Teamwork matters: Be collaborative and supportive of others without neglecting your own responsibilities.
3. Prep Efficiently: Since your time is limited, focus on practice tests to familiarise yourself with the format and types of scenarios. Websites like JobTestPrep or Practice Aptitude Tests can help you simulate the test environment.

 

[EzeLaylor]

I should have been clearer that you will need around 12 months to do the SQE (unless you have an exemption from either SQE1 or SQE2). You will need 4-5 months of prep before SQE1, you then will have to wait 3-4 months for the next SQE2 sitting (if you were to start an SQE course in February, you would sit SQE1 in July, sit SQE2 in October/November), and you will then need 4 months to wait for your SQE2 results.

Thanks @Jessica Booker
The firm confirmed that I would start the SQE studies in September 2025 for a March 2027 TC start

 

[emily12]

Does anyone know if the video questions at the end of the SH test have unlimited preparation time?

Yeah SH confirmed there is unlimited time for VI prep

 

[Jessica Booker]

Thanks @Jessica Booker
The firm confirmed that I would start the SQE studies in September 2025 for a March 2027 TC start

Sounds like you will have six months (possibly slightly more if not an LLM prep course) off between the summer of 2026 and March 2027 then.

I would expect the timeline to be:

Start your studies - September 2025
Sit SQE1 - January 2026
Sit SQE2 - mostly likely April 2026 but could be July 2026
Get SQE2 results - August 2026 or November 2026 (subject to which sitting of SQE2)

 

[clay pulse]

Has anyone doing SH summer scheme heard back after accepting the offer and sending practice areas?

 

[onedayj]

Anyone knows if Baker McKenzie has a policy for candidates to pass SQE on first attempt?

 

[m_faiz_m]

Hi,
I think a lot of VS offers were given in March (although not entirely sure about the Reading office).
Hopefully you will hear back soon!

Hmm, haven't received any communications since the Assessment Centre. Thank you anyways!

 

[BobThebIlly]

Hi guys! I received an initial assessment invitation from Stephenson Harwood for the summer vacation scheme after not hearing anything since the deadline lol



I have exams this week my final exam is on the 20th. My assesment deadline is the 21st. Is it worth asking them to give an extra day?



Also, I would love any advice at all. Is the assessment timed at all? Do the interviews give you unlimited time to prepare? This is my first assessment invitation so I’m really lost and overwhelmed 🙏

 

[B101]

Hi guys! I received an initial assessment invitation from Stephenson Harwood for the summer vacation scheme after not hearing anything since the deadline lol



I have exams this week my final exam is on the 20th. My assesment deadline is the 21st. Is it worth asking them to give an extra day?



Also, I would love any advice at all. Is the assessment timed at all? Do the interviews give you unlimited time to prepare? This is my first assessment invitation so I’m really lost and overwhelmed 🙏

Hey congrats! I’m not sure about the assessment but I’ve read that the interview is untimed so that should take some pressure off! Even prepping 1 hour a day until then should position you well, all the best!

 

[deeja]

Hey guys just wanted some insight.i am graduating this year and I don’t have anything lined up. For those of you who have graduated what did you guys do

 

[NJS]

Hey guys just wanted some insight.i am graduating this year and I don’t have anything lined up. For those of you who have graduated what did you guys do

got a job as a legal assistant/paralegal - you just have to apply apply apply and eventually something will land, your first job wont be your last and its all progress to your end goal

 

[lawbear123]

has anyone done the dechert scheme and is willing to offer insights!

 

[legal18]

For a competency-based interview, what are some questions I should prepare for?