TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Jessica Booker

Legendary Member
TCLA Moderator
Gold Member
Graduate Recruitment
Premium Member
Forum Team
Aug 1, 2019
15,364
21,458
Hi! I am doing a vacation scheme at the end of July and would be beginning a conversion course soon after. If I am offered a training contract off the back of my VS, they will fund my conversion course but if not, I will have to fund it myself. There’s a very short time between finding out if I get a TC and starting a conversion course - does anyone have any tips as to how I should approach this? Should I enrol in the selected course that the firm I am doing my VS at uses? Is there a chance that places run out if I leave it too late? I would be grateful for any insights thank you 😊
The GDL is highly unlikely to run out of places. They typically only fill around 50-70% of their places each year and are likely to still be selling the courses in the weeks leading up to the programme starting.

I would speak to the firm you are doing a vacation scheme with to see what their process is for GDL courses. Some firms no longer put trainees through the GDL. Others do, and may have a preferred supplier, but may just reimburse you what they would have paid their supplier if you are committed to a course. Worthwhile speaking to them to get advice on how they would navigate the situation.

1742226868741.png
 

Jessica Booker

Legendary Member
TCLA Moderator
Gold Member
Graduate Recruitment
Premium Member
Forum Team
Aug 1, 2019
15,364
21,458
If a firm only offers TCs to roughly 4-6 out of 12-18 vac schemers, how exactly do you stand out beyond doing good work and being likeable? Feeling nervous as it will be my only VS and I really want to convert!
As you are a Gold subscriber, I recommend looking at our Accelerator content which is specifically for this topic.
 

legalskills44

Standard Member
Jan 20, 2025
7
5
The GDL is highly unlikely to run out of places. They typically only fill around 50-70% of their places each year and are likely to still be selling the courses in the weeks leading up to the programme starting.

I would speak to the firm you are doing a vacation scheme with to see what their process is for GDL courses. Some firms no longer put trainees through the GDL. Others do, and may have a preferred supplier, but may just reimburse you what they would have paid their supplier if you are committed to a course. Worthwhile speaking to them to get advice on how they would navigate the situation.

View attachment 7046
Thank you very much, this is so helpful! I’ll have a chat to the firm to see what they suggest.
 

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.