TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[hmevey]

when did u apply/do the test? what office and was it vac scheme

SVS for London. Did the test start of March x

 

[nicoledm]

Marriott Harrison vacation scheme !

 

[summersun]

Marriott Harrison vacation scheme !

Congratulations !!!!

 

[Lawlilly]

How long did it take to hear back from CMS following the VI for those who have been through the process already

 

[DennyCrane]

For anyone who has already completed SQE, Nelsons in Derby/Nottingham is advertising for a trainee solicitor to work in their employment department. You have to be ready to start so no good if you haven't yet done the SQE.

 

[user55998384]

Is CovInsights good?

ive heard so!! did you get accepted?

 

[174Tess9y3]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock,
Hope you're well!

I'm preparing for an interview and was wondering how to go about the question "Where do you see yourself in five years?"
Do you have any advice?

Thanks!

 

[CharlieandLola]

In my application to a private client firm I spoke about how some tasks "gave me a grounded understanding of commercial law"- should I count that application as a rejection? The rest of it was really private client focus but just wondering if that one slip up will get me out

 

[helenaskelton]

In my application to a private client firm I spoke about how some tasks "gave me a grounded understanding of commercial law"- should I count that application as a rejection? The rest of it was really private client focus but just wondering if that one slip up will get me out

Count everything as a rejection until you get it, no matter the firm. Then every interview is a nice surprise.

 

[hiimlawyer]

Travers VS offer!

 

[iklawapps]

Has anyone received a PFO or offer from Bakers after the batch on the 13th?

Good luck! : )

 

[EfficientBag123]

What’s the OC first year scheme like? Did anyone do it?

 

[adfs456]

Does the longer Sidley takes to respond indicate higher chance of PFO post partner-interview? Did it last week and starting to get really worried

 

[helenaskelton]

Does the longer Sidley takes to respond indicate higher chance of PFO post partner-interview? Did it last week and starting to get really worried

What time? I heard for my VS around a week after!

 

[ADhillon01]

Fladgate Interview (following AC)

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock,
Hope you're well!

I'm preparing for an interview and was wondering how to go about the question "Where do you see yourself in five years?"
Do you have any advice?

Thanks!

Hello!

I am doing well, thank you - hope you are too!

For an interview question, I'd say that it is less about having a perfectly mapped-out five-year plan, and more about showing that you understand the trajectory of a trainee solicitor and see yourself developing within the firm.

Therefore, I'd start by anchoring your answer in the training contract itself - talk about things such as building a strong foundation through your seats, developing core legal and commercial skills, and gaining exposure to different practice areas. Then, move on to where you would realistically be in five years, which is usually an associate level role. At that stage, it could be good to frame it around developing within your chosen practice area. You might talk about becoming more confident in handling parts of transactions and cases, taking on greater responsibility, and starting to build relationship with clients while continuing to develop your technical expertise.

It is also worth ending on how you would contribute to the wider firm - for example, being a reliable team member, supporting trainees, business development opportunities, and getting involved in things like pro bono or other firm initiatives. This helps show that you are thinking beyond your own development.

Overall, I'd say it is important to give a realistic and credible picture of your progression over the next five years, rather than something that is overly ambiguous or vague. They're likely looking for evidence of commitment, awareness of the role, and that you are someone who is motivated to grow at the firm!

 

[NM23x]

Has anyone heard back from ropes & gray? !

 

[billyonthespeeddial]

out of everything that I've said on this forum can't believe this one gets featured in a jaysen video lol

(why am I watching this when I have a TC now, idk I got an email and I was bored. good video though)

 

[174Tess9y3]

Hello!

I am doing well, thank you - hope you are too!

For an interview question, I'd say that it is less about having a perfectly mapped-out five-year plan, and more about showing that you understand the trajectory of a trainee solicitor and see yourself developing within the firm.

Therefore, I'd start by anchoring your answer in the training contract itself - talk about things such as building a strong foundation through your seats, developing core legal and commercial skills, and gaining exposure to different practice areas. Then, move on to where you would realistically be in five years, which is usually an associate level role. At that stage, it could be good to frame it around developing within your chosen practice area. You might talk about becoming more confident in handling parts of transactions and cases, taking on greater responsibility, and starting to build relationship with clients while continuing to develop your technical expertise.

It is also worth ending on how you would contribute to the wider firm - for example, being a reliable team member, supporting trainees, business development opportunities, and getting involved in things like pro bono or other firm initiatives. This helps show that you are thinking beyond your own development.

Overall, I'd say it is important to give a realistic and credible picture of your progression over the next five years, rather than something that is overly ambiguous or vague. They're likely looking for evidence of commitment, awareness of the role, and that you are someone who is motivated to grow at the firm!

Thank you so so much!

 

[Bread]

Is it frowned upon to discuss upcoming roles in an interview? Not other vac schemes, just other work placements that will develop certain skills that would be useful for trainees etc.