TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[rrr]

same ..! They view application forms after stage 1 and 2 are completed, is it worth still completing the stage 2 assessment, because will they automatically aftet they see i missed the request to use bullet points in the work experience section?

at the end of the day, you can't let limiting beliefs hold you back.

 

[cs3008]

Is there a list of firms that do not include video interviews as part of their application process? I am really not comfortable with VIs.

 

[hmevey]

Hi! does any one have any advice for macfarlanes stage 2 ?

 

[TheHamlet4]

Would it be too late if I apply to Macfarlanes on the 27th? I think they warned against applying on the deadline day at their webinar, but I have an interview tomorrow and am working at the same time.

 

[tldrba]

Would it be too late if I apply to Macfarlanes on the 27th? I think they warned against applying on the deadline day at their webinar, but I have an interview tomorrow and am working at the same time.

They are non-rolling, but the application form does not have any written questions. It is just personal info, academics and work experience. Stage 1 gets sent like the day after and you have 7 days to complete.

 

[tcla02]

@Abbie Whitlock Should we aim to quantify our achievements for the Macfarlanes work experience section since they ask for bullet points? like we would for the bullet points in a CV? thank u xxx

 

[thedonnabrief]

hihi

did freshfields change their wording on their dtc faq page??

this is what the dtc page says:

If a vacation scheme doesn’t fit your circumstances, you’re welcome to apply directly to our Trainee Associate Programme. You don’t need to have completed a vacation scheme to secure a place on the programme, and many of our trainees join us through the direct application route.​

their normal faq page says:

If you are in your penultimate year or beyond, you are eligible to apply directly to our Trainee Associate Programme. There is no advantage in applying for a vacation scheme over a place on the Trainee Associate Programme and approximately half our trainee intakes come from direct Trainee Associate Programme applicants. You don’t need to have completed a vacation scheme to secure a place on the Trainee Associate Programme.​

im not sure if this difference existed before but now they have sort of framed it as a vac scheme being the main route of recruitment in a way, and avoided publicising a definite intake percentage for either route ('many'). im not sure if this is worth emailing grad rec over but the discrepancy is throwing me off

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

@Abbie Whitlock Should we aim to quantify our achievements for the Macfarlanes work experience section since they ask for bullet points? like we would for the bullet points in a CV? thank u xxx

Hey!

Yes, I think that is a good approach! I would treat the bullet points fairly similar to CV bullet points, particularly as the format lends itself well to highlighting what you actually did and any tangible outcomes.

However, I wouldn't feel that you have to quantify every single point. If there is a clear number/result (e.g. "increased attendance by 30%", "managed a team of 10", etc.), definitely include it as it makes the achievement more concrete and tangible. If there isn't a meaningful figure, I wouldn't force one in just for the sake of quantifying it.

I would prioritise action + impact/achievement + what you gained. For example:

1. Assisted with X, resulting in Y
2. Managed X people or £X budget, while achieving Y
3. Researched X and presented findings to Y, developing my ability to Z

So essentially, yes to the CV-style approach (broadly speaking), but it helps to focus on the substance rather than trying to make every bullet point contain a quantifiable number (as that isn't always possible).

I hope that assists!