Vacation Scheme Student Review

Each day was different. There was a session or two every from various departments within the firm. This includes Corporate & Financial Transactions, Litigation & Investigations and Real Estate. You are also placed within a team and given live/real work to complete. Each student has a trainee buddy and partner/associate supervisors. You are encouraged to contact others within the firm to find out about their roles and departments. Everyone is really friendly and open.

I have learnt a range of legal skills such as research and drafting. I have learnt what a City law firm does on a day-to-day basis and the kinds of transactions that they get involved in. The experience was very interactive with a range of sessions, such as on financial transactions and the process for litigation. The experience developed my ability to be pro-active and ask good questions.

It was very easy to learn about the business and the roles available. The experience is very interactive and you are encouraged to speak with as many people as possible, no matter how senior. The sessions organised are also generally very informative and enable learning across a range of different practice areas and legal roles available within the firm.

The company culture at BCLP is excellent. Open, friendly and supportive are the three words I would use to describe it. The diversity initiatives are also excellent, with diversity embedded into the aims of the firm, rather than a superficial approach. Charity and pro bono initiatives are also well catered for. I believe there are sports clubs (e.g. netball) but these were not widely advertised so could be made easier to access.

I enjoyed all aspects of the placement. The work was interesting and varied. The people were friendly and supportive. The company culture came across more strongly in the days I was able to be in the office and I think this will be crucial in determining how it develops in the future. The experience exceeded my expectations and I go back if given the opportunity.

Yes

The main tip I would give is to research the firm very thoroughly ahead of any assessment or vacation scheme. It is also very important to keep up-to-date with general commercial awareness topics. It is also important to understand how law firms work and make money. For the group sessions, have some well-researched questions prepared and don't be afraid to ask these. During the vacation scheme, remember to be enthusiastic and ask questions if you want clarification on something.