Did the scheme end with a training contract interview?

Yes, the vacation scheme concluded with a presentation-based interview. I was given a question in advance and instructed to create a PowerPoint presentation, which I then presented to two of the firm's partners. After delivering my presentation, the partners asked me questions relating to the content, followed by more general questions. The format of the interview can vary for each vacation scheme, but the assessed tasks consistently include an interview component and a group exercise.

The presentation seemed designed to foster open dialogue rather than adhere to a traditional Q&A format. I left the interview feeling confident that I’d generated ideas that could add real value to the firm and the people it employs. Additionally, the interviewing partners were genuinely interested in exploring and refining my suggestions to enhance the firm.

What was it about the firm that attracted you to apply to its scheme?

After conducting some research into the UK's legal market, I was drawn to Osborne Clarke LLP due to several factors, including the firm's technology and future-focused approach, three-dimensional strategy, diverse range of service lines and sectors, and the opportunity to undertake a range of work for market-leading clients. I also felt that experiencing seats in two distinctly different teams over the span of two weeks would offer me a more holistic understanding of both the firm and various legal practices, while also helping me to develop skills with real-world value.

However, the most important factor, by far, was attending free events hosted by/involving the firm and speaking to its representatives. From these experiences, I gained a clear insight into the values the firm prioritises in its practitioners, wider staff and culture, and whether they were comparable with my own.

How did the scheme help you to understand the firm better as a business?

Throughout the two-week vacation scheme, each practice group hosted a lunch or boardroom style conference. At least one representative from each team within the practice group attended and provided their perspective on the work their team undertakes and their key clients. From these sessions, I developed an understanding of where and how value is generated for the firm and how business development is utilised to generate work for multiple teams from larger clients.

Additional informative sessions were hosted by the firm's people development team, marketing department and the managing partner. The sessions delved into Osborne Clarke's 2025 strategy, including how the firm positions itself in the legal market and the types of client relationships it aims to develop.

Were there any moments during the scheme that confirmed your desire to become a solicitor?

Among several noteworthy experiences, the most significant was a research task I undertook for a live matter while seated within the firm's competition team. After being provided with the necessary resources, I produced a piece of legal research on intriguing subject matter that I was genuinely proud of. I then collaborated with my trainee buddy to review and refine my work. Ultimately, my revised copy was forwarded to one of the team's partners, who utilised my advice note to deliver advice to a client.

Being entrusted with the responsibility to direct and produce my research, receive live feedback, and directly observe the value it provided to the client was extremely gratifying. It solidified my passion for learning about the intricacies of the law, applying my knowledge to address legal challenges and making a positive, tangible impact for clients.

How can students stand out during group tasks or assessments on the scheme?

Understand how and why you’re being assessed.

In group tasks, your contributions and collaborative skills are being monitored. When voicing your ideas, attempt to contextualise them in the discussion by expanding on, consolidating or politely challenging the ideas of others. If possible, pose questions to the group to encourage their contributions.

While an understanding of the law can be beneficial, most assessments will likely focus on your commercial awareness, knowledge of the firm, its business model and the wider legal market. Ensure to reflect on the tasks you’ve completed and the conversations you’ve had during the vacation scheme. This will allow you to provide evidence of personal and professional growth, enthusiasm and the value you can potentially add to the firm.

How did attending LawCareersNetLIVE influence your decision to apply to the firm?

I attended LawCareersNetLIVE London, where I participated in a workshop hosted by Osborne Clarke. This workshop challenged me to collaborate with fellow attendees and consider common commercial issues that arise in intellectual property licensing deals. We then received immediate feedback on our output from one of the firm's senior associates.  

The experience was invaluable; I gained insights into the work the senior associate typically undertakes, acquired specialist knowledge from the feedback and discussion, and came to understand how the firm is structured. There were also a range of representatives from the firm at the conference, providing me with the opportunity to ask questions and gain diverse perspectives. This helped me to differentiate the firm from its competitors and appreciate its unique approach, which inspired me to apply for and subsequently attend Osborne Clarke's summer vacation scheme.