Spring Vacation Scheme 2026 Review

During the vacation scheme, I was given a realistic insight into life at the firm. I sat in the same office as my supervisor, received tasks directly from them, and benefited from regular, practical feedback, which made the experience feel genuinely reflective of trainee work.
Alongside this, the scheme included a range of structured sessions focused on different practice areas, as well as networking opportunities with trainees, associates and partners. These interactions helped me develop a clearer understanding of both the firm’s work and its culture.
Overall, the day-to-day experience felt immersive and hands-on, and closely mirrored what it would be like to work as part of the firm.

It was highly informative and gave me a much clearer understanding of how different teams and practice areas operate, including areas I had not previously been exposed to. We had regular opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with partners and senior associates, which made the learning experience both practical and insightful.
These discussions helped build a more detailed picture of the type of work each team undertakes and how they contribute to the firm overall. I particularly valued the chance to explore the nuances between practice areas, as it allowed me to think more critically about which areas I would be most interested in pursuing in the future.

Through the work I completed for my supervisor, I developed a range of practical skills. This included conducting targeted legal research, drafting client-focused advice, and gaining exposure to complex corporate restructuring within a broader strategic M&A context. I also developed a better understanding of how different parties approach negotiations and the considerations that shape their positions.
Overall, the experience helped me bridge the gap between my commercial understanding and legal knowledge, enabling me to produce work that was not only technically accurate but also tailored and relevant for clients.

I found the culture to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of the experience. Everyone was approachable, willing to engage, and genuinely interested in getting to know you. Despite the firm’s size, it did not feel overly hierarchical, and interactions across levels were open and accessible.
The atmosphere was professional but not overly formal or rigid. Instead, it felt collaborative, supportive, and even entrepreneurial in mindset, which stood out to me. It closely aligned with my own experience in similarly fast-paced and commercially driven environments, and made it an engaging and enjoyable place to be.

I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. What stood out most was how immersive it felt, combining real responsibility with strong support, which made the insight both intellectually engaging and genuinely reflective of life at the firm.

Yes

I would recommend being yourself and showing your genuine personality throughout the application process. The firm values a range of perspectives and encourages individuals to bring their own approach and way of thinking.
It is also important to demonstrate a clear interest in the firm and an understanding of its work, while engaging confidently and authentically with everyone you meet. Building genuine connections, rather than trying to fit a particular mould, makes a meaningful difference.