Vacation scheme student Review

A highly enjoyable week, with assessments running alongside first hand experience within a team at the firm.

Everyone in the offices I saw were exceptionally friendly, even if just running into each other in the canteen. The team I was with really made me feel at home and took care of me!

I was supervised by a trainee 'host' but the whole team took an interest in me and the work I was doing. HR were also extremely supportive and went out of their way to make sure that you could come to them with any queries.

As legal work experience it was fantastic, as you get the opportunity to get involved in real work, but generally the placement gave me an opportunity to work on my networking, time management and presentation skills, which are useful in any work place.

The work given to each placement student will vary depending on which team you are with, and their workload at that particular time. However there are tasks set throughout the week which provide a series of deadlines and a structure for the placement overall.

The Reading office can be variable, as some people are in other offices on certain days. However, this varies from team to team, and when there is a full house the atmosphere is very friendly and relaxed.

I was trusted with real work as a trainee would be, and my host devoted a large amount of time and energy to making sure that I was getting on well and enjoying the work, and gave me excellent constructive feedback. However, you are being assessed, and have to put in as much as you want to get out of it.

Some of the assessment tasks do not quite relate to the role of a trainee, but the time spent within your team is invaluable.

The culture of the firm really is evident once you are there at your desk. There is a definite sense of collaboration and support throughout all levels of the firm.

The pay for the placement is competitive and in line with what you would expect from most national firms.

I was actively encouraged to meet other employees, and was invited to lunch and the firm rounders team!

Sports of one kind or another are played every week, and it seems as though there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with charity events. Many people commute to Reading though, so after-work social events would be up to you to organise and may be difficult. The annual skiing trip sounded great though!

Blogs, sports, and charity events are all encouraged.

It is incredibly useful in getting an insight into the legal sector and a national firm, and you are made to feel welcome from the moment you arrive.