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Macfarlanes

Vacation Scheme Review

at Macfarlanes

Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)

Corporate Law

London

Review Submitted: July 2025

Overall Rating

4.7 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Experience
4.5/5 - Skills Development
4.5/5 - Company Culture
5/5 - Overall Experience
5/5 - Recommendations and Advice

Overview of Experience

Please give an overview of the insight and what was involved on a day-to-day basis.
I was given an amazing insight into two different practice areas. In each week I sat with a different team and was exposed to varying tasks that a trainee may undertake. Alongside this we were able to partake in sessions delivered by the firms key practice areas which introduced us to the type of work they do and examples of the matters they have advised on. I also really enjoyed attending networking lunches and CSR sessions which provided me with more information on the firms culture. The ELC team were extremely supportive and made us feel welcome from day one! The recruitment team should definitely be seen as a USP at Macfarlanes.
What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?
It has been insightful to learn about the career options available at the firm and how its business is structured. We were exposed to lawyers at all stages in their careers and provided with an in depth understanding of their roles within matters.
Please rate how insightful you found the insight
5/5
How would you rate the structure of the insight
5/5

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given to enhance my commercial awareness and understanding of the operations of law firms. I have been able to develop my communication skills in a professional and personal setting along with my teamwork skills from the negotiation exercise. Furthermore, I have learnt how to present myself in a professional work ing environment. Another skill I have developed is time management as balancing multiple tasks was something I was able to adapt to.
How would you rate the training provided during your experience?
4/5
How would you rate the knowledge learned around industry-specific skills during the experience?
5/5
How would you rate the knowledge learned around personal or professional skills during the experience?
5/5
Please rate how the knowledge learned has helped you with regards to your career development
4/5

Company Culture

How would you rate business leader involvement during the insight
4/5
What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?
I felt extremely welcomed from the moment I stepped into the office. The cohort were lovely and ELC eased us in so nicely. My supervisors were both so supportive and they equally emphasised that this support is prominent for trainees also. Inclusion and CSR is clearly a priority and I have thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in the culture.
How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
5/5
How would you rate the networking opportunities?
5/5
Please rate how valued you felt during your insight?
4/5

Overall Experience

To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
I really enjoyed the insight into Macfarlanes and meeting such lovely and supportive people.
Please rate your level of enjoyment on the insight
5/5
Please rate how your experience met your expectations
5/5
Were you paid or reimbursed adequately for this experience?
I was paid

Recommendations and Advice

Please rate the future employment prospects at Macfarlanes
5/5
Would you recommend Macfarlanes to a friend?
Yes
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Macfarlanes
I would advise others to try to fully immerse themself in any experience offered to them and not to be nervous as it is such a welcoming environment.
In This Review
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