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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

jaisrihere

Well-Known Member
Oct 4, 2025
21
13
Does everybody include extra-curriculars in their work experience?
Depends on the law firm.
Some firms (especially the ones using Vantage) explicitly asks you to mention them in the Work Experience Section, while other firms have separate sections for it (Links etc), so I avoid adding them under work experience.

When there is no separate space or clear instructions provided, I add them to work experience.
 

lawyersum

Legendary Member
Jun 28, 2024
253
393
I just did the Simmons & Simmons test and got 5/10 in two of the areas they 'look for' but scored highly in their third one, did well in their verbal and numerical expertise and feel like my video interview was solid - Should I expect those two lower areas to mess up my chances completely?
I'm no expert, but that definitely sounds like more pros than cons to me! Especially in the VI which is arguably more difficult to have a solid performance in compared to multiple choice questions. Fingers crossed for you!, it seems like a balanced performance!
 

johnsmith

Legendary Member
Oct 2, 2025
133
145
That’s crazy! I’m convinced I’m toast but there doesn’t appear to be any rhyme or reason. When did you apply? Huge congrats!🙌
Perhaps they have, like, initial applicants who are primary and a group in reserve if the primary don't do a good job of the written exercise? Time-limited production of materials always feels like a good way to work out who is good under the time pressure, more in line with the job, versus those who can craft something well researched, but might take a long time to produce that i.e. application form questions
 
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Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
303
250
Does everybody include extra-curriculars in their work experience? - this firm doesn't have a separate extracurriculars section or questions that ask for it.
Hey!

I'd definitely agree with other forum users - if there isn't a separate extracurriculars section or questions that ask for it, it's perfectly fine to include them in the work experience section.

However, I would limit this to extra-curriculars that are 'structured' (i.e. not hobbies) such as university societies, sports clubs, or volunteering. This is because you will expected to outline the role, responsibilities and skills that you gained within the work experience entry, and this may be more difficult for some hobbies :)
 
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Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
303
250
Hello @Abbie Whitlock
For this question, Briefly summarise a recent commercial news article - can I mention about an AI-powered TV show or is this not commercial? I have some things I could say about this, or is it better to mention something like trade, M&A etc?

Thank you
Hello!

I'd say that it's perfectly fine to discuss an AI-powered TV show if the article focuses on the business and commercial aspects - for example, how it's funded, produced, monetised, or its impact on the entertainment industry. That would make it relevant as a commercial news story as you can talk about the wider impact on the commercial world.

However, if the piece is more about the creative or technological side, it might not fit as strongly. In that case, something like trade developments, mergers and acquisitions, or market trends would be a safer bet for a commercial focus.

I hope that helps! :)
 

FutureTraineeMaybe

Legendary Member
Premium Member
Feb 15, 2024
183
162
Hey!

I'd definitely agree with other forum users - if there isn't a separate extracurriculars section or questions that ask for it, it's perfectly fine to include them in the work experience section.

However, I would limit this to extra-curriculars that are 'structured' (i.e. not hobbies) such as university societies, sports clubs, or volunteering. This is because you will expected to outline the role, responsibilities and skills that you gained within the work experience entry, and this may be more difficult for some hobbies :)
Hey @Abbie Whitlock , their work experience options are only paid employment, work experience - unpaid/paid, volunteering and open days. So, would you say they're not looking for extracurriculars?
 

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