Vac Scheme student Review

This was the most enjoyable week of my working life. The week reaffirmed my preconceptions based on WM’s sterling reputation. WM strikes a unique balance: it’s a high-powered corporate law practice, with down-to-earth, friendly staff relations and a relaxed office environment. I felt like it was one of the only places I’ve worked where I could truly be ‘myself’. I can’t emphasise that enough: I felt so comfortable in the firm. The work was stimulating, the firm is the perfect size (though this is a personal preference), and the staff are some of the nicest people I’ve met in the working world. The mentoring scheme has been amazing. For somebody who has previously had no contacts in the legal world, the engagement has been a superb developmental aid to kickstart my legal career.

I felt completely valued - like I was part of the team. Level 10 on the 'rate my placement' star scale is 'like family' - WM is just that. The main areas of work were: proofing letters, bundling, research using Westlaw, forming case chronologies, creating dramatis personae, attending team meetings, note taking during calls, making telephone notes and attending webinars. It was engaging, real 'live' client work. I felt valued due to my being proactive, and a tandem willingness on the part of WM to allow vac schemers to undertake as much work as possible to experience the working life of a lawyer. If you're prepared to work, WM are prepared to give you the responsibility, and give you credit where you've performed well. The vibes of positivity were infectious.

As mentioned, the team were so friendly and approachable. Any queries on points of law or reasoning behind particular decisions and how WM conducts its business were answered in full. Notwithstanding the necessary confidentiality, I was guided on the meaning and purpose of the work I undertook. Sometimes placements can lack an explanation of the 'bigger picture' to temporary staff (understandably). 'Snippets' of work are given to temporary staff to complete in isolation. However, WM has a very sanguine outlook vis-a-vis its vac schemers and entrusted me with important details on live cases, which made me feel responsible and engaged. I always love getting constructive feedback, and WM staff made sure to treat me as part of the team and allow me to work with important client files as if I were a fully fledged trainee. The week encapsulated the most guidance and support I've had in my professional working life.

The work was an excellent introduction to WM and the type of business the niche IP department undertakes. The team were incredibly welcoming and I was working on important, useful work in aid of a court appearance. It was a pleasure working on the firm's blue-chip client work and playing a part in helping the IP team prepare for court by producing and amending bundles. The team were kind enough to include me in their day-to-day client engagement to give me a real insight into how WM operates. I also undertook some interesting work researching niche legal updates for a multi-jurisdictional IP client. The team responded to my proactivity, and allowed me to show my skills. In turn, this helped me learn how WM operates and engages in the excellent work it performs. A first-rate experience all round.

Incredibly so. We received full training on day one, and we were equipped with a full diary and schedule of events. Not only did the department operations have great structure and methodically assigned work, but there were also opportunities to network with the staff - so we could get to know future and present trainees. WM vac scheme is probably one of the most streamlined, well-organised schemes I’ve been on. The week was an excellent balance of departmental work, socials, networking, and simulated exercises forming part of the assessment. I’ve learned an immeasurable amount in a week and I feel I’ve made a leap forward in boiling down the kind of firm I’d like to work for.

WM lives up to its reputation of being one of the most friendly and welcoming law firms. There is a tremendous 'feel good' factor amongst the colleagues and a continuing desire to enjoy working life. There is a real 'buzz' about the place and I would encourage anyone looking to undertake a vac scheme in the legal sector to apply to WM to get a terrific experience and an insight into what an exceptional firm looks like.

As mentioned, there was full training and excellent development. I feel within the space of a week I understood more about what I want out of a law firm.

As mentioned above, the work undertaken was live client work. I was treated as if I were a genuine trainee.

We were completely immersed. The social on Wednesday night was a brilliant opportunity to speak to staff and get an understanding about the company culture. Above all - it was fun!

The content of the week was the most useful insight into how I want to progress as a future lawyer. Highly recommended.

The gesture of payment shows WM is committed to investing in its staff and values its team members.

Yes. As mentioned. There were so many social and networking events at the firm it felt like we were already part of the team. I spoke to as many staff as possible (which was actively encouraged by WM) and we were handed so many opportunities to speak with everyone.

The networking and social event opportunities were superb and offered a great insight into the nature of the firm.

Yes - WM does a lot of activities outside of work and strongly emphasises its Corporate Social Responsibility.

Undoubtedly. Even if you're not from Leeds, the opportunity to see this incredibly friendly, first-rate legal practice is unmissable.