TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[NLegal]

Just responded to your post in the thread but will share here too:

Here's what you need to know for each module.

I haven't used these myself, but you might find these notes helpful (found on Reddit).

Hello,

Thank you so much for taking the time to respond - both links look really helpful - I really appreciate it!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Random question if anyone can help please - when do winter vac scheme/open day apps typically open? Basically, one of the times for me to take annual leave this year would awkwardly be the start of September for two so I'm weighing up having a break v being around to apply!

Hey!

From what I've seen in previous cycles, most winter vacation scheme and open day applications tend to open around August to September (based on the deadlines thread from this cycle, which you can find here).

However, firms do seem to be opening applications earlier and earlier each year, so there may well be some opportunities that open before then. Additionally, firms tend to stagger their application windows throughout the start of the recruitment cycle, rather than all opening on the same day, so I wouldn't be too concerned about being away for a short period as I'm sure some applications will open later in September/October as well. In my experience, application deadlines are also usually a month of two after applications open, so you'll generally have a reasonable amount of time to get your applications submitted

 

[mintgecko]

Has anyone heard back regarding Bird & Bird's Flying Start programme?

Applied almost two months ago when applications opened, and the programme is only a month and a half away. Want to make summer plans but still holding out until I hear back.

 

[Futuretrainee002]

Hey,

Random question, does anyone have any advice what to wear to a networking session with no formal dress code. I’m struggling to decide if I should just wear a suit or if that would be too overdressed.

 

[helenaskelton]

Anyone who did Kingsley Napley written exercise - did they hear about the screening call today? Or are people just waiting?

 

[addy2004]

Hey!

From what I've seen in previous cycles, most winter vacation scheme and open day applications tend to open around August to September (based on the deadlines thread from this cycle, which you can find here).

However, firms do seem to be opening applications earlier and earlier each year, so there may well be some opportunities that open before then. Additionally, firms tend to stagger their application windows throughout the start of the recruitment cycle, rather than all opening on the same day, so I wouldn't be too concerned about being away for a short period as I'm sure some applications will open later in September/October as well. In my experience, application deadlines are also usually a month of two after applications open, so you'll generally have a reasonable amount of time to get your applications submitted

Thank you so much, that's reassuring!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hey,

Random question, does anyone have any advice what to wear to a networking session with no formal dress code. I’m struggling to decide if I should just wear a suit or if that would be too overdressed.

Hey!

I think a suit would rarely be considered inappropriate at a law firm networking event, but in my experience most people tend to go for smart business casual unless the firm has specifically said otherwise.

I would probably aim for something that sits between the two if you are unsure. For example, for men that could be smart trousers with a shirt and perhaps a blazer, and for women, smart trousers, a skirt or dress with a blouse and/or blazer. These tend to work well regardless of what everyone else is wearing.

However, I've always found it the safer option to be slightly overdressed than underdressed at a professional event. If wearing a suit would make you feel more confident and comfortable, I don't think anyone would think twice about it!

 

[Eudora]

DAC Beachcroft VS offer!! I am honestly in disbelief. After a gut wrenching TC rejection from another firm at the final stage back in February, I didn’t know if this would happen for me. But it goes to show not to give up, and that resilience really is part of the process.

Congrats!! Which office is this for？

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

As we move into the next recruitment cycle, this thread is now closed. Any future vacation scheme discussions, questions, or updates can be posted in the TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread for the 2026-27 cycle.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this thread over the past cycle, and best of luck with your applications!