• Are you a future trainee?

    We're hiring at TCLA. Apply by midnight on 31 March 2025.

    Apply Now

TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Katy12345

Distinguished Member
Jan 25, 2024
64
101
Hiya @Katy12345

This could definitely be a possibility. If you're successful in securing a vacation scheme offer, it’s worth raising this with graduate recruitment to see if there’s flexibility. For now, I’d focus on the assessment centre and securing the vacation scheme first. I had a similar experience at a firm where I couldn't accept the vacation scheme offer, and asked if they would be willing to invite me to interview for the direct training contract. Thankfully, they were willing to consider me for the direct training contract. While it's possible they can reject the request, I've generally found most firms with a direct training contract route are quite accommodating here. At the very least, it’s always worth asking. Best of luck!
Hi @Ram Sabaratnam! I wondered if I could discuss this further with you on DM at all please? Really pleased to say I have been fortunate in receiving the offer
 
Last edited:

sc13

Standard Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Feb 25, 2023
5
0
Hiya @sc13

I did the video interview in 2023, so things may have changed slightly since then. At the time, the questions were a fairly even mix of commercial and competency-based ones. You can expect some commercial awareness questions that are directly relevant to the firm, alongside more general competency questions assessing your skills, experiences, and ability to work in a team.

To prepare effectively, it’s worth taking time to think about where Charles Russell Speechlys sits in the London legal market and what makes it unique compared to other firms. A key point to focus on is its combination of private client and commercial work, which is quite distinctive. I think your answers can really stand out if you carefully consider how these two broad areas interact. So think, for instance, about how high-net-worth individuals might also be business owners and how the firm’s expertise allows it to offer integrated advice across both personal and commercial matters. It would also be helpful to think about current market trends that could impact CRS and its clients. Overall, I think having a well-rounded view of the firm’s work and being able to discuss why this makes it appealing in a "commercially aware" way should help your answers stand out.

Best of luck with the interview and I hope it goes well!
Thanks for the informative reply!

Out of curiosity what is the turnaround time post VI?
 

Legalstalker

Legendary Member
Premium Member
  • Oct 9, 2023
    469
    1,992
    @Jessica Booker

    Hi hope you’re well, is 4 weeks post AC with no outcome excessive?

    Normally I don’t think about it and get on with other things but I’ve had another VS offer which would clash with this firms VS dates if I were to be successful.

    I have called and emailed and the firm has ignored every form of communication. I had a deadline of acceptance for the other firm any they were unable to accommodate an extension as other applicants were waiting to hear back.

    (They’re known to give rejections if you chase for an update)

    The firm stated if we had another offer to make them aware but they’ve ghosted me. 👻😂​
     

    FM302989

    Legendary Member
    Junior Lawyer
  • Oct 16, 2020
    300
    1,183
    Can't speak for Bread, but part of it is that you come off as combative and condescending towards someone that already completed their TC years ago lol
    Glad to see it wasn’t just me!😂
    Straight Face Trying Not To Laugh GIF
     

    Chris Brown

    Legendary Member
    Jul 4, 2024
    630
    1,754
    does SH on their application form ask whether we want to apply for the spring or summer scheme. Had a brief look at the form and don’t think they ask?
    Yeah there is a section on the forum where you select which VS you want to be considered for.

    I think it’s on the same section as the application questions. Can’t remember for sure though. 🥲​
     

    3000to1shoteverytime

    Legendary Member
    Dec 9, 2023
    176
    216
    Glad to see it wasn’t just me!😂

    I often help people here and by DM. I simply don't understand why it is any different to not disclosing specific questions whilst processes are undoing which is what is asked if us. I wasn't being combatative merely explaining there were reasons why this IS being asked by firms at interview and gave an example but without giving a fuller answer which isn't fair on people who have already had those interview.

    Please feel free to expand more fully as can those others who disagree with my approach.
     

    About Us

    The Corporate Law Academy (TCLA) was founded in 2018 because we wanted to improve the legal journey. We wanted more transparency and better training. We wanted to form a community of aspiring lawyers who care about becoming the best version of themselves.

    Newsletter

    Discover the most relevant business news, access our law firm analysis, and receive our best advice for aspiring lawyers.