First Year Insight Scheme Review

The First Year Insight Scheme was incredibly enjoyable. The schedule was packed full of a variety of activities, such as group negotiation exercises and work shadowing. It was invaluable in gaining an insight into the firm and the type of work it does. All the Trainees/associates were also very friendly and willing to take time out of their day to talk to us.

Everyone went out of their way to ensure we felt comfortable and were making the most out of the day. Our questions were answered and people were very transparent in answering any concerns we had. I particularly liked the number of partners who took the time to speak to us and interact with us individually.

A variety of guidance was provided, ranging from application and interview tips to more general advice such as how to improve our commercial awareness. We were encouraged to ask questions, and the staff were great at explaining business concepts in a simple and easy manner before we began more complex work.

I developed key communication, teamwork and negotiation skills through the 2 group exercises - these skills will certainly be of use when I come to practice law myself. I also developed my commercial awareness massively by enhancing my understanding of business concepts and the way in which the legal industry operates.

The timetable was given to us at the start of the scheme and was very well stuck to. The days were also organised in a way that made sense, for example by having the evening social on the evening of the first day. There was also a lot to do so that we were never bored.

Everyone was constantly engaged - there was never a boring moment, from fighting to get the best deals for our clients during the negotiation exercises to networking with a range of people during the social sessions. The staff at the firm - from trainees all the way through to partners - were friendly, welcoming and more than willing to answer questions transparently.

I was able to develop key communication skills through the negotiation exercises. There was also plenty of opportunity to develop commercial awareness through the explanation of key business and legal concepts. The work shadowing was particularly useful in developing my understanding of the way in which different departments operate on a day-to-day basis.

There was enough time to observe the atmosphere at the firm and get a feel for how the staff interacted with each other - this was especially evident during the tour of the office and the work shadowing. The work shadowing was also useful in understanding the types of tasks afforded to trainees.

There was plenty of opportunity to explore different practice areas. The department fair was incredibly useful in exposing me to the different departments at the firm and allowed me to understand what they did. This information will most certainly be useful for me when deciding my seats during my training contract.

I didn't ask to be reimbursed.

There was constant networking and interaction with employees at the firm across the placement. I especially enjoyed the evening social because it allowed for more informal interaction. Another great thing was the range of employees who were available to talk to - from trainees through to partners. This was useful in helping to tailor questions.

Plenty of information was given about the Pro bono initiatives that the firm is involved in and how trainees can also get involved. There are also a range of networks and activities within the firm, such as sports teams. Trainees also spoke about events that are hosted, such as quiz nights.

The Insight is definitely the way to figure out if the firm is right for you and if you would fit in. The constant interaction with a range of employees enables you to get a feel for how diverse the firm is. It is also very easy to observe the culture.