Placement Year Review at Government Legal Service

The Role

Role Description

I was mainly based in the Treasury Solicitors Department (TSol). Observed inquests, case management conferences, hearings, applications for strike out (immigration hearings), went to the House of Lords, wrote updated prognosis letters.

1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Was given the opportunity to travel around the country to observe various inquests, hearings, etc, and everybody was very friendly. I was always being asked what else I would like to experience during the placement.

2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I was always asked for my opinion and given the opportunity to discuss cases.

3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Given full support from everybody in the department.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I chose perfect balance as there was never so much to do that I felt over my head, but I always had something to keep me occupied, and there was always more to do if I wanted.

5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

Given responsibility suitable for my age and experience.

6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Definitely developed vital skills and confidence, which aid me in future work experience and jobs.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

It was very friendly, everybody was very welcoming, and every day several people brought in home made and store bought cakes and goodies!

8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Very well planned and organised - before I arrived everybody had been emailed asking if they had any interested work for me to be involved with, and during my stay I was constantly asked if there was anything in particular I wanted to experience.

9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

I was able to attend a training event for the solicitors and barristers at TSol, and was given guidance on specific skill areas.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

• Company Parties/Events
• Staff Sales/Staff Shop

11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I really enjoyed my placement and would definitely consider a career with the GLS.

Other Information

12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

During my two weeks at GLS some of the trainees had organised a social night for other vacation students and existing trainees. I had a fantastic night and got to hear honest opinions from several trainees (as well as free drinks!)

13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 1/10

Central London is expensive, but I live here anyway.

14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Central London has a fantastic nightlife.

15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 2/10

I was only there for two weeks, but there was a social night organised by current trainees.

In addition to these questions, is there any extra information you would like to leave about your experiences on your work placement that other students may be interested in?

I had a really good time here, and anybody who is not sure whether the GLS is for them should definitely apply for a vacation scheme/mini pupillage with them.