Reading time: four minutes

So, you’ve landed a vacation scheme. First of all, congrats! That’s no small feat. With hundreds (sometimes thousands) of applicants gunning for a handful of spots, just being offered a place means you’ve already impressed someone. But now that you're in, the real work begins. Vacation schemes are far more than just a couple of weeks of work experience. They’re essentially extended interviews wrapped in team bonding, legal research, lunchtime networking and maybe the odd cocktail evening. Many firms use them as their main pipeline for training contract recruitment, so this isn’t just a chance to learn about law firms, it’s a chance to show why you belong in one.

But here's the good news: vacation schemes aren’t just assessments. They’re your chance to interview the firm too. It's the time to explore departments, learn how teams collaborate, assess the culture, and see if you can picture yourself there in the long run. Whether you’re stepping into your first scheme or gearing up for your third, these practical tips will help you make the most of it, from preparation to post-placement follow-up tips.

Choose your departments strategically

You’ll usually get some say in which teams you spend time with – so think ahead. Don’t just go where your friends are going or where you think the ‘prestige’ lies. Pick departments that genuinely interest you or that you’re curious about. If you're unsure, try something outside your comfort zone, you might just surprise yourself. Avoid areas you know you'll dread; a lack of enthusiasm will be obvious.

Research before you arrive

Before day one, look into the firm’s structure, practice areas, recent deals or cases, and, crucially, the team members you'll be working with. Find out what matters to them. Come prepared with a few thoughtful questions. It’ll show genuine interest and help break the ice. But remember, read the room, don't badger people between emails and meetings.

Be proactive about asking for work

Don’t wait for instructions. If your supervisor hasn’t given you a task yet, ask around. Trainees often do this and you should too. Firms want to see that you're eager and able to manage your time. Just be careful not to overcommit, you want to impress but not to burn out or submit sloppy work.

Balance breadth with depth

It’s tempting to try and win over as many people as possible, but spreading yourself too thin can backfire. Prioritise quality interactions, especially with your main supervisor or anyone who might be giving feedback. It’s better to be remembered for doing one thing really well than being forgettable across ten departments.

Keep track of everything

Keep a quick daily log of what you worked on, who you interacted with and any lessons learned. It helps for later reflection, but it’s also useful if you end up applying for a training contract, especially at the same firm.

Treat your work like it matters

Don’t assume your tasks are ‘just for show’. Many firms will actually use your work or circulate it internally. Always check your formatting, double check for errors and, if possible, go the extra mile by including relevant cases or insights. It shows initiative and polish.

Understand that you’re always being observed (kind of)

Not every moment is a formal assessment, but your behaviour is always painting a picture. Be friendly, stay off your phone and engage with people, especially at social events. Firms want to know you’ll be a pleasant colleague to work with. Enthusiasm, openness and professionalism go a long way.

Use the skills you already have

You’ve been chosen for a reason. Apply your strengths, whether that’s research, writing, communication or analysis, to real-world legal tasks. You’re not expected to know everything, but you’re expected to try.

Bond with fellow vac schemers

You’re all in this together and you might be future colleagues. Forming genuine friendships and helping each other can make the scheme more enjoyable and less stressful. Also, nobody likes a cut-throat attitude. It's not The Hunger Games.

Enjoy the ride

If you can’t bring energy and interest for two weeks, ask yourself whether law (or this firm) is the right fit. Use the scheme to figure that out. Sometimes the answer is "not this firm," and that's just as valuable as getting a yes.

Check out our Vacation Scheme Insider profiles to get a sense of what different placements are really like from candidates who have experienced them firsthand.