What is a Vacation Scheme?

What happens on a vacation scheme?

The best vacation schemes give you a front-row seat to everyday life in a law firm, getting you involved in ongoing cases and regular social engagements.

Working alongside trainees, partners and associates, you’ll be given real tasks that contribute to the business. Some of your tasks will include;

• Carrying out legal research

• Attending court

• Exploring the firm’s areas of expertise

• Knowing and understanding the firm’s clients

• Shadowing a qualified solicitor.

Vacation schemes are an absolute must for any aspiring lawyer. Firms use these schemes to assess potential candidates for their training contracts*, with some even guaranteeing an interview at the end of the scheme.

Why should I do a vacation scheme?

The legal sector is competitive. It pays well, it’s never boring and you’ll never not have work. So it’s vital to get your foot in the door as quickly and as early as possible.

Here are just a few advantages to fitting a vacation scheme or two in between semesters;

• Get a taste of what it’s like to be a lawyer, as well as life in a law firm

• Actual work experience

• Find out what cases really involve and carry out real tasks to develop your skills

• Work on improving soft skills such as communication, teamwork and research skills

• Impress prospective employers by sticking it on your CV or LinkedIn.

Ultimately, a vacation scheme is your chance to see if a career in law is really for you. As a law student, you by no means have to go into the industry. The degree comes with a bunch of transferable skills that you can bring to other industries.

Want to know more about all the work experience you can do in Law? Read our guide to a career in Law to find out.

Do you need to be a law student to take a vacation scheme?

Nope! Vacation schemes are open to everyone, and they’ll go a long way in helping you secure an internship, placement or graduate scheme. 

As a non-law student, however, you may have to work harder to show that you have relevant experience. More importantly, you’ll need to prove your passion for the industry.

• Think about the following;

• Are you passionate about enacting justice?

• An analytical thinker? 

Perhaps you’ve always wanted to channel your inner Elle from Legally Blonde? Pinpoint whatever it is that will make a compelling cover letter for your application.

Are vacation schemes paid?

The great news is that while some firms will only cover expenses (e.g. lunch and travel), most will offer compensation on top. Vacation schemes that last a week or longer are typically paid.

The amount you get paid will depend on the type of firm you work at and its location. Large US firms, for instance, are likely to dish out heftier paychecks than the smaller regional firms.

But with companies like Allen & Overy and Linklaters offering at least £500 a week, you could be lucky enough to save some moolah whilst gaining that all-important experience.

Read what a first-year law student thought about their vacation scheme:

When and how to apply

Deadlines for winter vacation schemes tend to fall around October or November time, whilst summer vacation schemes usually fill up in January. Always make sure to check with each firm you’re applying for.

The application process can vary depending on the scheme. However, it’ll always include putting together a CV and cover letter, followed by an interview and assessment centre.

Some employers might ask you to take an interactive assessment before the deadline. These can include psychometric and situational judgement tests.

Ready to find a vacation scheme? Places for vacation schemes fill up quickly, so it’s worth applying as soon as you can. Start today!