Trainee Solicitor Review

The key highlight for BCLP's virtual vacation scheme was definitely the ability to get in touch with not only junior fee earners, but also senior fee earners and their willingness to satisfy you curiosity about their work and experiences, but also about the firm more broadly.

Despite the fact that the scheme was virtual and only one week in duration, I felt in no way undervalued. Firm wide staff wanted to hear about our experiences, what we were interested in and what we wanted to get out of the scheme.

Throughout the week I was able to freely get in contact with my trainee buddy and also get in contact with other trainees around the firm. Everyone was willing to answer questions and encouraged us to get in contact with those in the firm that we wanted to speak to.

I think one of the key skills and attributes I developed over the course of the week was to communicate confidently. Having been throwing into the virtual week I feel more confident in approach junior and senior fee earners. I think this is also a crucial skill for the future as a legal career is founded on the interaction with clients and with other colleagues.

The firms virtual was very well structured. Each day was jam packed with interactive and insightful seminars that introduced a greater depth of knowledge about the firm but also to the culture that the fee earners and wider staff emanate. Socials were also a good opportunity and get to know everyone in a more relaxed environment.

The general atmosphere was fantastic and is a true testament to the outstandingly friendly culture at BCLP. At no point did I feel undervalued or scared to ask a question, nor was any question that anyone asked received as something we should have already known. Despite being a virtual scheme it still portrayed the firm in a light that would be emulated with a face-to-face scheme.

The firm took a real interest us since day one and provided us with a jam packed schedule to get the most out of the scheme to find out about the work and the people involved. It was also great at the end of the scheme we had a Q&A on what the firm could do better and change in the future.

It was instrumental in understanding not only the culture and values of the firm but also the progression of roles and tasks that you will be expected to undertake. Chatting with trainees in this regard was invaluable to see the type of work they get up to on a daily basis. Similarly it was great to see how the role changes the more senior you become within the firm.

Again despite being virtual it was so easy to see the culture at BCLP because the very people that I spoke with emanated it. It was open, friendly and relaxed and it is a place where I feel I would be more than happy and comfortable to work at.

The content provided firstly has helped me to further grasp that I want a career in the law, but also has solidified my resolve to want to join BCLP. It explained to me the business side of the law as well as the areas that I was previously interested in, whilst introducing me to areas that I never thought I would have enjoyed.

I was adequately paid.

There were a number of opportunities to meet and network with people at the firm. After every session each fee earner gave their email address for a potential follow up or to set up a call. With regards to trainees, they were great with their availability and willingness to chat.

There were a number of opportunities to meet and network with people at the firm. After every session each fee earner gave their email address for a potential follow up or to set up a call. With regards to trainees, they were great with their availability and willingness to chat.

Whilst on the virtual scheme we were introduced to a number of CSR, pro bono and business development opportunities. As well as this we were told about the different committees, social and sports clubs the firm has on offer.

I would definitely recommend this virtual experience to a friend.