First Steps Programme Review

Item: First Steps Programme at Fieldfisher LLP
Rating: 5
Author: Anonymous

at Fieldfisher LLP

Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)

Commercial Law

London

Review Submitted: April 2023

Overall Rating

5 /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

5/5 - Skills Development

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.

The scheme consisted of a series of sessions designed to give insight into the firm's culture and work, including a department roadshow. In addition, there were sessions on the firm's current schemes designed to support inclusion and diversity, as well as the firm's commitment to pro-bono and ESG. We also gained an in-depth view of a trainee's day-to-day tasks through a 1-1 shadowing opportunity.

What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?

Very insightful. Although the two days were jam-packed, I am still curious to learn more about particular practice areas. It was a great first exposure. I understand that the training contract allows trainees to gain a deeper insight into different practice areas and ultimately decide where to qualify. Therefore, the first steps programme was an excellent introduction to the role of a trainee and the different roles available at the firm.

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?

Yes. I joined the scheme with strong commercial awareness but learned a new way of applying that skill. Gaining further exposure to the clients Fieldfisher assists I was able to understand how to use my commercial awareness to best advise a client and how, as a trainee, I would be able to advise on potential risks before they arise as issues.

How would you rate the training provided during your experience?

5/5

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

5/5

Company Culture

How would you rate business leader involvement during the insight

5/5

What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?

The culture reflected the motto A law firm built around people. Everyone was very friendly and approachable.
I shadowed Haleema in the Private Client department. Haleema put a lot of effort into organising an excellent day consisting of a client call, insight into the current work, and a lunch with other members of the team. Haleema encouraged me to reach out if I had any further questions, showing what a supportive firm Fieldfisher is.

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?

5/5

Overall Experience

To what extent did you enjoy the insight?

The full extent. I am fortunate to have gained previous insight into the firm and its work, but this was an excellent opportunity to gain further insights. I enjoyed the work I could get involved in and felt immersed in the atmosphere of mutual respect and collegiality. I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the firm in both a professional setting but also in a more relaxed environment during the evening social.