TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[annad]

I think they have now scrapped the summer window for direct TC to make way for the new winter VS. The winter VS is open to law and non-law finalists and graduates and lasts for a week. I think the first VS is this year and applications open in August. 🙂

The introduction of the new VS is why they have added an automatic SJT for the direct TC route. It should have been mentioned earlier tbh. This would give applicants sufficient time to prepare for the SJT. 🥲

If we apply for direct TC now, would we potentially still be eligible to apply for the Winter Vac Scheme when it comes to the ‘one opportunity per academic year’ rule? In other words, is the Winter VS considered part of a new application cycle? I’d appreciate any insights on this, especially from @Jessica Booker . Thanks!

 

[Tintin06]

If we apply for direct TC now, would we potentially still be eligible to apply for the Winter Vac Scheme when it comes to the ‘one opportunity per academic year’ rule? In other words, is the Winter VS considered part of a new application cycle? I’d appreciate any insights on this, especially from @Jessica Booker . Thanks!

I’m pretty sure the answer’s yes.

 

[chrisbrown]

If we apply for direct TC now, would we potentially still be eligible to apply for the Winter Vac Scheme when it comes to the ‘one opportunity per academic year’ rule? In other words, is the Winter VS considered part of a new application cycle? I’d appreciate any insights on this, especially from @Jessica Booker . Thanks!

Yeah you would still be eligible because the direct TC is for this academic year (24/25). 🙂

The Winter VS is for next academic year (25/26). The applications open in Aug but close in Sep and the VS is in Dec (2025). 🙂

If not, I’m sure you could apply for the direct TC window next academic year which would open in Oct and close in Jan 2026. 🙂

 

[Jessica Booker]

If we apply for direct TC now, would we potentially still be eligible to apply for the Winter Vac Scheme when it comes to the ‘one opportunity per academic year’ rule? In other words, is the Winter VS considered part of a new application cycle? I’d appreciate any insights on this, especially from @Jessica Booker . Thanks!

yes - it would be a new recruitment cycle.