TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi everyone

I’ve got a Burges Salmon assessment centre in Bristol coming up soon and I’m honestly SO nervous

If anyone has done it before (or has any tips), I’d really appreciate any advice on how to prepare and what to focus on.

From what I’ve been told it includes:

• scenario discussion
• group exercise
• written exercise
• interview with a lawyer

I’m not sure what answers / examples I should be prepping in advance (like what competencies they usually test, what interview questions tend to come up, how detailed commercial awareness needs to be etc).

If anyone could share:
what the tasks were like
what you wish you’d done beforehand
how to stand out in the group exercise without being annoying
how to approach the written task
common interview questions / best prep

I’d be so grateful!! Thank you

Hello!

Congratulations on receiving an AC invite! It's totally normal to feel nervous - assessment centres can feel stressful, no matter how many you complete In general, firms are more interested in how you think and interact than in you having a perfectly polished answer for everything. Whilst I haven't completed an AC at Burges Salmon before, I can share some tips on how I'd approach each element. I've also quoted some more general AC posts that I have previously made, as they might be helpful to refer to as well!

For the scenario discussion and group exercise, there is rarely a single right answer. What the graduate recruitment team are assessing is how you analyse information, weigh up pros and cons, and communicate your reasoning and thought process to others. I would say that you should try to appear collaborative, rather than dominant - for example, summarising where the group has got to, asking quieter people for their views, or calmly raising risks or alternative perspectives that haven't been considered.

The written exercise is usually about structure and clarity. I would say that a strong written exercise will be well-structured, client-focused, and identify the key issues, risks, and next steps. This is often more important than trying to show off lots of technical knowledge, as this isn't necessarily well-suited to the aim of the task. In terms of structure, I always found it helpful to use a mix of prose / bullet points / headings / subtitles - this can help make your answer easier to read.

In the interview, the questions are likely to be motivational / commercial awareness / competency based. This could include your motivations for law, teamwork, dealing with pressure or mistakes, and how you approach decision-making. For commercial questions, I would try not to panic about needing to be a 'technical expert' with your answers - as long as you can explain why the commercial issues matter in practice, both for the firm and its clients, this matters much more than being to explain financial concepts in detail. For example, if asked about a recent news story that interested you, I would explain the story and then discuss: (1) the opportunities it brings for law firms and their clients (e.g. how this might bring in new work, and what departments that might involve), and (2) the challenges it brings (e.g. what might clients need help mitigating, and what kind of work can firms do to help them with that) - I've always viewed it as being able to explain how law firms add value to their clients!

In terms of preparation, one thing that really helped me was to become comfortable with uncertainty. I used to have a tendency to want to memorise answers for every potential question, and this is definitely not a sustainable way of preparing! Instead, it might be more useful to have a few solid examples in your mind around the main competencies that you can refer to if prompted - things such as teamwork, handling pressure, making decisions, etc. It also helps to practice out loud and get used to explaining your thought process to others.

My biggest tip is not to panic if you feel unsure at any point, or don't think you know the answer. The best thing to do is to explain your thinking clearly and sensibly, and this can sometimes be as valuable as getting to a final answer. Everyone at the AC with you will be nervous, so I would encourage you to lean on each other and root for each other (even if it feels like they are the competition!).

Overall, if you focus on being calm, engaged, and show a clear interest in the firm, you'll already be doing a lot of the things that the graduate recruitment team will be looking for.

Wishing you the best of luck!!

Hi @LegallyBrunette_ !

Huge congratulations on being invited to AC - what a fantastic achievement!

In the AC that I completed for my TC, I had to complete both a group exercise and a case study interview, so I can understand wanting to do all you can to prepare in advance. I can share what worked best for me!

Group Exercise

• In the group exercise, they are typically looking at how you work with others, not just what you contribute. Be collaborative, listen actively, and build on other people's points.
• Aim to contribute regularly but avoid dominating - asking others for their views on a topic can show leadership without being overbearing. I would always aim to not be the loudest or the quietest in the room, although I know finding this balance can be quite tricky!
• Keep the group focused on the task! I would always try and keep track of your progress and summarise the key decisions made as you go along.
• If you have to select an idea, don't worry if yours isn't chosen. What matters is how you respond and whether you support the group's direction.

Case Study Interview

• You'll usually be given a business / legal scenario with background documents. I would start by reading quickly to understand the big picture, and then go back to confirm the smaller details.
• Structure your response clearly - identify the client's goals, outline the key issues, and suggest practical next steps.
• They won't expect you to know black-letter law. Focus on logic, prioritisation, and showing that you can think commercially.
• Talk the interviewer through your thought process - even if you get stuck or seem confused, they can see how you reason.
• If given a contract to assess, make a note of the exceptions and calculations in the contract. You might be asked how your stance would change if X event occurred, and it's useful to be mindful of when it might fall under any exceptions.

I would also brush up on Jones Day's structure (e.g. their non-rotational training system and international work) just in case it comes up. They're assessing potential, not perfection - so as long as you stay calm and do your best, you'll be fine.

At the end of the day, they want to see the real you - someone who can think clearly, work well with others, and stay composed under pressure. If you go in with a collaborative mindset and a clear structure for approaching problems, you'll put yourself in a strong position.

Best of luck - you've already done the hard part by getting to this stage!

Of course, no problem at all!!

Since client emails are such a common format in written exercises, it's definitely worth getting comfortable with how to approach them! A few things that I kept in mind when preparing:

Understand the Purpose and Audience

Before you start writing, clarify who you are writing to (e.g. a client, supervisor, or a colleague) and what information they need from you. The tone, level of formality, and structure will vary depending on whether it's an internal email or an email to an external client.

For example, if you are emailing a client, you want to ensure that they are able to understand any legal principles that you are outlining in your email. As such, it's important to make sure you write it in layman's terms and don't just recite the information given in the materials. However, if you are emailing a supervisor, I would focus on highlighting the most important pieces of information as you are effectively trying to save them time in going through the materials themselves. I would always aim to write in a professional way, and frame it like you would an actual email - such as a subject line and a closing sentence.

Use a Clear and Logical Structure

The main thing that I changed when approaching written exercises was making sure that I had a clear and logical structure. A good client email should be easy to follow. A simple structure could look like:

1. Opening: A brief, polite greeting and context for why you're writing (and what you'll be discussing in the email). If you're emailing a supervisor, it might be useful to include a short summary of your findings at the top (i.e. an early conclusion), and then go into more detail below.
2. Main Body: Summarise the key points or advice clearly and concisely, using short paragraphs. It might be appropriate to use headings and subtitles, especially if there is a lot of information. The goal is to make sure that the client can follow along, and that it isn't just a massive wall of text that is difficult to read.
3. Closing: End with next steps, an offer of assistance, or a polite sign-off (e.g. "Please let me know if you'd like to discuss further"). These elements distinguish an email exercise from a general report or memo, and shows that you are following the brief exactly! If you are emailing a supervisor, I would try to show some proactivity in the closing parts - such as offering to write a first draft of a document or client email.

Keep your tone professional and approachable

I would aim for clear, confident language without being overly formal (but still professional). This can be tricky, but phrases such as "I'd recommend..." or "It may be helpful..." strike a nice balance. Avoid overly technical language or long-winded phrasing - simplicity often conveys professionalism! As stated above, I would definitely avoid legal jargon if you are writing to a client, unless you are certain that a client would understand it.

Also remember that tone can shift slightly depending on the client's relationship with the firm. If you are told this information, a longstanding client might suit a warmer tone, whilst a first-time contact may call for a more formal approach. However, if in doubt, I would always go for a more formal approach - especially in a professional context!

Be precise and client-focused

Remember the purpose for why you are actually writing to the client, and tailor your response to the client's actual issue. I would avoid copying large chunks of background information from the brief (as the client will already have this information!) - instead, demonstrate understanding of their issue by reframing the key points in your own words and applying them directly to the client's situation. Make sure to keep your advice practical - clients care more about what they should do next than about the legal theory behind it. You might find it useful to use signposting phrases such as "In summary..." or "Based on the information provided..." to make your reasoning easy to follow. If there are uncertainties, I would make sure to address them but be reassuring - e.g. "Further details would be needed to confirm this position, but at this stage...".

Check for clarity and tone at the end

Before your time runs out, take a moment to review your email. I always found it helpful to read it aloud (if possible) or follow along with my finger - this helps you catch sentences that are too long, unclear, or sound abrupt. Look for opportunities to simplify, and if a sentence takes more than one breath to read, it's probably too long! Make sure your sign-off fits the context (things such as "Kind regards" or "Best wishes" usually work best). The graduate recruitment team / assessors will be looking for professionalism in formatting and presentation - consistent spacing, clear paragraphing, and correct spelling and grammar will all make a strong impression.

As a practical tip to practice: You could start by taking short case studies and draft sample emails that summarise your advice in 200-300 words. This helps you get used to organising your thoughts quickly and writing in a professional, accessible way.

I hope that helps!

Hi!

Congratulations on getting the final interview - that's amazing news!

Whilst I haven't been through the Withers process myself, I can share some general tips on how I would prepare for an interview with HR and a partner!

1. Research the firm and Withers' focus

I'd refresh your memory and do a little more research on the firm - as they're known for their private client and HNW/UHNW work, it might be worth brushing up on:

• Their key practice areas (private clients, family, reputation management, real estate, etc.)
• What makes them different - have a think about what sets them apart in the market. This could be things such as their client base, international presence, and the relationship-driven nature of their work
• A couple of recent deals or insights that they have shared that genuinely interested you

2. Be prepared for the classic motivation questions

You can almost guarantee that at most law firm interviews you will be asked questions such as:

• "Why law?"
• "Why Withers?"
• "Why you?"

I'd also pay particular attention to the fact that they are well-known for their private client work, and prepare an answer for "Why private client work?" in case they ask you this. They likely want to see that you understand the people-focused nature of the work, and why that appeals to you / you are a good fit for it.

3. Prepare strong examples

I would also expect some competency-style questions as well. Have a few solid stories ready for traits such as teamwork, resilience, attention to detail, handling responsibility, managing competing deadlines, etc. I would always recommend this forum post by Andrei, as it is really comprehensive and super handy to go over before an interview!

4. Expect some commercial awareness

Even though it's private client focused, they still want to see you can think commercially (and I was asked commercial questions at a similar, private client focused firm). Pick one or two current issues affecting HNW clients (e.g. tax changes, cross-border estates, family office trends, economic shifts) and be ready to discuss them logically. Discuss how the firm can help their clients navigate these issues, and which departments in the wider firm would be involved.

5. Consider your tone

Whilst it is important to remain professional in an interview, it's also just as important to show genuine enthusiasm and be engaged in the conversation. They will want someone personable, thoughtful, and genuinely interest in their work, so remember to show your personality as well!

6. Prepare a few questions

As with most interviews, I would prepare a few insightful questions to ask at the end if you have time. These should be things that you aren't able to find on the firm's website, such as:

• "How does Withers collaborate across practice areas for private client matters?"
• "What makes a trainee stand out here?"

You could potentially even ask the partner for their views on how recent developments might change the work that Withers completes, or how it creates new opportunities / challenges for their clients - particularly if it is a topic you are interested in!

I hope that helps, and best of luck! You've got a whole week, which should be plenty of time to prepare

 

[Bread]

I propose a deal:

People can post about all the ACs and VSs and TCs that they get BUT they have to share their secrets with the rest of TCLA

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

I propose a deal:

People can post about all the ACs and VSs and TCs that they get BUT they have to share their secrets with the rest of TCLA

 

[yasmars]

Thanks! But in my defence all I said was that I'm nervous and wanted advice on how people navigated feeling like it's their last chance in the cycle... the rest was brought up by others? it was never my intention to bring up my VS. And to put the record straight, I never said "guys I need another VS". That is not something that would ever come out of my mouth - at least not in that form with that insensitive tone.

(hence why I was slightly relieved when firmfirm said what I was feeling because I didn't want to risk sounding ungrateful and insensitive)
(I mean this in the nicest way possible - I just hate getting things pinned on me which I didn't actually do)

All I wanted was some advice and reassurance, but because I have a VS already I guess I'm not entitled to feeling anxious and asking for advice. Either way, like Harvey mentioned, it was never our intention to be tone deaf and make anyone uncomfortable. Quite the contrary, I wish to see you all thrive! That's why I am usually always open to helping out others when they ask.

ANYWAYS guys I hate when tensions are high in the forum - I'm sorry for even opening my mouth earlier - it certainly isn't helping with my prep lol PLEASE JUST DISREGARD IT

You may not have said "guys I need another VS" verbatim, but you have said something similar before. Not that theres anything wrong with that! Good on you for all your successes this cycle

 

[I’m a celebrity get me out of here - VS/TC edn]

I get where you’re coming from but I feel like it’s the right message wrong messenger. Cos you’ve also posted something quite similar recently.

It’s ironic for you to say our posts were tone deaf yet you’d done 3 ACs last cycle and secured 2 TC offers post VS/DTC yet posted the below.

You didn’t want anyone to judge you for making a decision to keep on applying despite securing TC offers so why are you judging others on here?

I’m not sure if I’ve misunderstood your post and I definitely don’t want to come across as rude but I can’t help but notice the hypocrisy here?



I don’t think either myself or @elle woods have any intention of being tone deaf and if we did I’m sorry to anyone that we made uncomfortable.

Also, if anyone from admin sees this and decides to delete this post, why are you allowing people such as this user to constantly stir trouble?

Then when we call them out or defend ourselves we get blamed instead? Many of us have noticed this over recent weeks and it’s not fair at all.

I understand nobody wants to see arguments on the forum but unless admin swiftly steps in to at least diffuse the situation this will carry on.

I understand it’s a stressful time for everyone but can we all please try to get along and not be trying to constantly find reasons to argue. ​

Actually I was going to leave this but nah.

What was the aim of this post? I actually want to know you search my name so you could tear me down so now I’m ridiculed for having an offer that I mentioned once. Although I stated in there why I did not take said offers. So no hypocrisy. And no these ACs messages were not a “one off” I’ve seen soo many of them about having 1 VS only or needing to convert more or not hearing back whilst having secured other firm opportunities etc etc.

Your intention was to tear me down. I find this concerning how ill mannered this post was. There’s was no arguing at all until YOU messaged. Then Ellie messaged then it cause others to it was squashed and everyone was happy. So why did YOU turn it into an argument. And you’ve probs been warned by admin because you’re a bit of a stirrer icl. Like the gifs you put aren’t nice sometimes.

Yes I’m blunt but I’m mostly ever “rude” to you because you dish it and can’t take it then report my posts. Yes saying people should read is mean and I’m sorry but jus standard attention to detail I fear my apologies to those affected by my actions on the forum

I’m not talking anymore to you or anyone else that has an issue. Message me privately if you need to get anything off your chest x

 

[I’m a celebrity get me out of here - VS/TC edn]

Damn the online personas got me crashing out let me go to bed .

 

[Sharkfin]

 

[Chelsea101]

Does anyone have tips on how to approach a group exercise at AC? I've never done one before Thanks in advance!

 

[Novaa]

Hi everyone, today was my last day at TCLA and I’m now getting ready to begin my TC in March. I really enjoyed my time here, and just wanted to say thanks to each and every one of you that made me feel welcome! I know the journey is long, gruelling, often crippled with self-doubt but just know that you will eventually come out on the other side, and you’ll look back and feel very proud of what you accomplished. Wishing you all the best…

@Abbie Whitlock and @Andrei Radu will be around to answer your questions, and @Jaysen will still be keeping an eye on you all (so, in the words of Shakira, no fighting).

OMG I just woke up from a nap to THIS!

Okay, unseriousness aside, thank you for all the help, Author Afraz. You’ve been really helpful and given us reassurance and giggles along the way!!

Travers are very lucky to have you, and I know you’re going to do amazing things!! GO BE GREAT AND SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND (Badum tss… another music reference )

 

[hawkins19]

soz to interrupt the beef. Just wondering if people with AC experience can tell me the likelihood of receiving a case study that isn't M&A related? That is all I have really prepared and I'm worried

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Does anyone have tips on how to approach a group exercise at AC? I've never done one before Thanks in advance!

you are getting marked on collaboration and how you work in a team - contribute but don't speak over people

 

[msclm]

I periodically check this forum to see if I can help people with their tc journey/respond to dms if I can. Recently, more often than not, I have to scroll through pages of actual nonsense. It will eventually turn me away from looking at this forum in general.

I understand tensions are high and this process can very easily cause anxiety and tensions to grow. But I fear yall are missing the point of this forum.

I don’t want to say gain some perspective, but gain some perspective. Argue in private if you so wish, perhaps leave the public forum for public issues.

 

[Legalfreak212]

soz to interrupt the beef. Just wondering if people with AC experience can tell me the likelihood of receiving a case study that isn't M&A related? That is all I have really prepared and I'm worried

the start of this is killing me

 

[Legalfreak212]

soz to interrupt the beef. Just wondering if people with AC experience can tell me the likelihood of receiving a case study that isn't M&A related? That is all I have really prepared and I'm worried

On a serious note i haven’t really heard of Case studies not being m&a related in some way

 

[Novaa]

Just finished scrolling and is this how we act when I have a nap?

Oh back to bed I go, let me know when we start cracking jokes again.

 

[hawkins19]

On a serious note i haven’t really heard of Case studies not being m&a related in some way

ugh thank you so much thats super helpful !!!

 

[pepsicola96]

Thanks! But in my defence all I said was that I'm nervous and wanted advice on how people navigated feeling like it's their last chance in the cycle... the rest was brought up by others? it was never my intention to bring up my VS. And to put the record straight, I never said "guys I need another VS". That is not something that would ever come out of my mouth - at least not in that form with that insensitive tone.

(hence why I was slightly relieved when firmfirm said what I was feeling because I didn't want to risk sounding ungrateful and insensitive)
(I mean this in the nicest way possible - I just hate getting things pinned on me which I didn't actually do)

All I wanted was some advice and reassurance, but because I have a VS already I guess I'm not entitled to feeling anxious and asking for advice. Either way, like Harvey mentioned, it was never our intention to be tone deaf and make anyone uncomfortable. Quite the contrary, I wish to see you all thrive! That's why I am usually always open to helping out others when they ask.

ANYWAYS guys I hate when tensions are high in the forum - I'm sorry for even opening my mouth earlier - it certainly isn't helping with my prep lol PLEASE JUST DISREGARD IT

of course I understand people feeling some type of way about this, but I completely get you! I’m in a similar position, I have secured one vac scheme and one AC coming up. So so grateful for my scheme of course, but it does feel like so much pressure.

You’re completely valid in having some anxiety around it. Converting a vac scheme is another huge hurdle in itself, and rejection post vac scheme hurts more than any other rejection in my experience. I’m absolutely terrified for mine now I’m a final year, so not securing a TC from this = gap year where idk where I’m living or what I’m doing which does make me anxious.

People can of course feel how they do, and that’s valid too, but I think you’re equally allowed to express your feelings about it!

 

[johnsmith]

soz to interrupt the beef. Just wondering if people with AC experience can tell me the likelihood of receiving a case study that isn't M&A related? That is all I have really prepared and I'm worried

I had a non-M&A one, but it was still a transactional situation. It particularly fit the firm's strengths, though which lay beyond Corporate.

 

[Deleted member 41929]

soz to interrupt the beef. Just wondering if people with AC experience can tell me the likelihood of receiving a case study that isn't M&A related? That is all I have really prepared and I'm worried

I’ve gotten case studies about corporate investigations, injunctions, and even sponsorship agreements

 

[LawAspirer]

Actually I was going to leave this but nah.

What was the aim of this post? I actually want to know you search my name so you could tear me down so now I’m ridiculed for having an offer that I mentioned once. Although I stated in there why I did not take said offers. So no hypocrisy. And no these ACs messages were not a “one off” I’ve seen soo many of them about having 1 VS only or needing to convert more or not hearing back whilst having secured other firm opportunities etc etc.

Your intention was to tear me down. I find this concerning how ill mannered this post was. There’s was no arguing at all until YOU messaged. Then Ellie messaged then it cause others to it was squashed and everyone was happy. So why did YOU turn it into an argument. And you’ve probs been warned by admin because you’re a bit of a stirrer icl. Like the gifs you put aren’t nice sometimes.

Yes I’m blunt but I’m mostly ever “rude” to you because you dish it and can’t take it then report my posts. Yes saying people should read is mean and I’m sorry but jus standard attention to detail I fear my apologies to those affected by my actions on the forum

I’m not talking anymore to you or anyone else that has an issue. Message me privately if you need to get anything off your chest x

And I asked u a simple question earlier because I wanted a clarification and you replied like a dickhead asking if im the home office. The fuq?