10 top tips on how to secure a training contract Make sure you're well-rounded. Get a good mark in first year. Apply for first year schemes. Attend networking events. Apply for vacation schemes. Don't apply for too many vacation schemes. Keep up to date with commercial events. Enjoy your vacation scheme.
Although the training contract placements and application counts vary between each firm, the success rate for each firm is almost always between 1%-3%.
In a cover letter for a training contract, highlight your commitment to pursuing a career in law, your understanding of the firm's area of practice, and how the training contract fits into your career plan. Be clear about why you see yourself as a part of that specific firm in the long term.
How to make your training contract applications stand out Think about what makes you, uniquely you. Be ruthless -- edit or delete any generic statements. Mention your previous interactions with the firm, no matter how small. Deploy all your hard work on building commercial awareness.
Trainee Blog: What makes a standout trainee? We ask our supervisors... Attitude. Entering a team with a positive attitude to get stuck into the work at hand and showing a willingness to learn is key. Being Proactive. Confidence. Attention to detail. Organisation.
Seat is essentially just the code word for "department" in the training-contract world. As you embark on your training contract, you'll rotate through a number of different departments within the law firm that's training you. Each department you work in is known as a "seat".
Energised by our collaborative culture, cutting-edge training and inspiring colleagues, you're guaranteed to make a splash as you gain quality experience across a broad range of legal practices. A six-seat training contract across a variety of areas from banking and real estate to dispute resolution and private client.
The seat of a corporation is the publicly-registered headquarters, or the registered office of a corporate entity.
Application process: Online application form, Watson Glaser Test, pre-recorded Video Interview, Assessment Day. Eligibility: Our Training Contract is open to penultimate year law students, final year law and non-law students and graduates.
Starting on Monday 8 September 2025, the training contract is a mix of qualifying work experience across four different seats, one of which will be in litigation. Alongside this, you will study for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) parts 1 and 2 through the University of Law.