Insight Scheme Review

The insight provided a great opportunity to get involved in two different areas of the firm, while carrying out some of the tasks that a trainee solicitor may do. The welcoming nature of the firm, alongside the various events allowed for greater exploration and insight of the firm beyond the immediate two areas. As a non-law student, the whole experience was extremely enjoyable, interesting and informative.

Due to the somewhat 'open-door' policy of the firm and the fact that the experience focused on helping with real-time real-world work, the whole experience made me feel that everything I did, any questions I asked, were taken seriously and contributed to something of value to the firm. As a result, I felt like a genuinely valued member of the firm. Naturally, due the scheme only being 2 weeks, the opportunity to add value was predominantly in the last few days of each 'seat', once you had become accustomed to the work and up-to-date on the work.

Throughout the two week scheme, I had guidance and support from the graduate recruitment team, my supervisors and trainee buddies and all others in the departments, who took time out of the schedules to help facilitate learning. As a result, I feel that the guidance and support during the insight was extremely good.

Due to being a non-law student, and only being able to take part in these schemes as a final year student (this is for training contract timing purposes), the insight did not assist in my degree studies or beyond. In terms of the skills, the majority of skills I utilised were those developed through my degree with industrial experience. The information, however, is beneficial in terms of future seat choices when completing a training contract, and for GDL and LPC qualifications. Overall then, the scheme was helpful, mainly for the information.

The graduate recruitment team provided a very organised and well structured plan for the two week scheme with various talks, workshops, social events and further information. All events were well structured, with clear objectives that, in all cases, were achieved. The order of the events, allowed for a seamless introduction into a more detailed insight of the firm; I found this extremely helpful.

The general atmosphere during the insight was very welcoming; all members of each department took time out of their schedules to at least pop-in and ask some questions and give a brief overview of the work they carry out. Furthermore, all staff actively engaged the scheme students to involve them in real-time real-world work. Beyond the work environment, all staff were very approachable at social events and invited us to various social and sporting events.

As it was only a two week scheme, there was little on personal training and development. The schemes were very much insight focused as opposed to training and development. As far as I can remember, there was one event on personal development, other than the feedback sought and received from supervisors.

The insight was very helpful for giving an insight into the full-time roles of a trainee solicitor, associate and partner. I would say that the insights gained were more focused on the trainee solicitor role rather than the partner role. Considering the trainee role is the next step so to speak, this was very helpful.

The insight helped to affirm the culture that is stated on the website. It was very apparent that the firm is an innovative, forward thinking and inclusive place.

I found that the opportunity to experience two different departments was essential to begin to gain a broader understanding of the firms capabilities and sector focus. Furthermore, it aided in affirming a keen interest in Law as a future career and highlighted the route from my current position to a solicitor with the career path aids offered by Simmons & Simmons.

I was paid in line with the industry standard.

The were a selection of opportunities to network and meet other employees. These ranged from organised events during the working day i.e. meet a greet, department introductions etc. There were also a selection of events following the working day for an opportunity to meet a selection of trainees and associates from across the firm's departments.

Overall, they were very fun and informative. The during work events were more for gaining insight and information from people at different stages in their careers and in different departments. The events after work, were more focused around relaxing and fun, for example one event was game based to promote collegiality.

Yes, there were brochures and talks about the number of opportunities that the firm are involved with, be it from pro bono work, sporting work, networking groups and events based on beliefs and interests. Furthermore, many speakers at events highlighted and promoted the various groups and opportunities for employees outside of work.

Absolutely, if someone is ever contemplating not only the career but also the firm as a place to complete the training contract, then getting a two week experience is extremely helpful for insight and ensuring that this firm, the career and the people are the right fit for you, and will excite and motivate you further. This insight really helps you assess if this is the right choice for you!