Vacation Scheme Review

Great opportunities afforded from both professional and social standpoints, allowing vac schemers to get a feel for the firm, its culture and its operations. Events organised were both enjoyable and useful for all participants, helping to develop the skills required to succeed as a commercial lawyer.

The teams worked within took the time to get to know you and provide you with interesting things to do. A lot of responsibility was introduced at an early age, however support was always available where necessary. Regardless of the level of seniority, people always found the time to answer any queries, and frequently kept in contact to check up on a schemers progress as they moved around the firm. Use of mentors was particularly helpful.

Advice, assistance and answers; everything was available from anyone within the firm, all you had to do was ask.

Many of the workshops focused on developing an understanding of the commercial world and the role of the lawyer within it, which will be particularly helpful if pursuing a career in commercial law. Furthermore, advocacy and presentation skills workshops helped develop communicational skills that were useful throughout the scheme but also in wider contexts.

Very well structured. All information was conveyed in a comprehendible manner to ensure that everyone was aware of the schedule and any updates to it. Use of the bible was particularly helpful in ensuring all vac schemers understood their scheduled commitments.

I really felt apart of the firm whilst on my vac scheme, and effort was made to include me in everything going on i.e. meetings etc. As a result, I was able to experience the daily life of a trainee at the firm, whilst was always occupied with something interesting to do. This coupled with the social events organised by the graduate recruitment team led to a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Training sessions and workshops were organised across the scheme to develop the practical skills and theoretical understanding of how to succeed at the firm. Continued support throughout the weeks was provided to aid personal training and development, and feedback was given upon the conclusion of each seat to outline areas for improvement etc.

Effort was made throughout the firm to include and occupy me, allowing me to fully experience the life of a trainee. Opportunities to network with trainees and the use of a trainee mentor were further useful in answering queries about their experiences at the firm and how the training contracts offered operated in practice.

Very much so. The opportunities provided allowed vac schemers to fully involve themselves in the firm.

The experience cemented my desire to become a commercial lawyer, but also outlined the cultural criteria that I would assess firms for when applying for training contracts.

£300 a week was sufficient to cover living expenses in the city, including accommodation costs.

Across the 3 weeks, several opportunities were provided to network with lawyers of various levels of seniority (trainee through to partner), allowing vac schemers to obtain varying perspectives on the firm and the profession.

Fun and varied. Enjoyed by all.

Several opportunities available such as sports team and pro bono etc. Not marketed heavily so you had to enquire to find out more about such activities in greater depth.

Definitely. Fun, informative and useful. A great experience.