Summer Vacation Scheme
About our Summer Vacation Scheme
Our two-week paid Vacation Scheme offers an immersive introduction to life at Joelson.
Designed for aspiring solicitors, the scheme provides practical experience across our key practice areas, including Corporate & Commercial, Real Estate, Employment, and Litigation. You'll also gain valuable insight into how a law firm operates through workshops and networking opportunities with our Finance, Marketing, Business Development, and HR teams.
As well as developing your legal knowledge and commercial awareness, you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and potential. Our Vacation Scheme is a key pathway to a Training Contract, with many participants successfully progressing to trainee roles with the firm.
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How To Apply
All applications must be submitted via the application portal on our website. Please do not send applications directly to HR, Partners, or other members of the firm, as we operate an anonymised recruitment process designed to promote fairness, minimise bias, and ensure all candidates are assessed consistently. Following submission, applications will be reviewed by our Recruitment Team, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the process.
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Eligibility Requirements
You are eligible to apply if you:
· Are studying law, in your final year at university, and are on track to achieve a 2:1 or above;
· Have already graduated with a law degree with a 2:1 or above;
· Are in the final year of a law degree;
· Have already graduated with a non-law degree; or
· Have started an SQE preparation course; and
· Eligible to commence a training contract in the year following completion of the Vacation Scheme, with SQE1 and SQE2 completed by the start date.
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Recruitment Process
The application process will consist of the following:
· Submission of your online application including your CV and Cover Letter;
· A 2 minute video question on a current legal topic;
· A 45 minute online written assessment;
· A video interview with members of our legal team (taking place in Early March).
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Key Dates
We recruit for our Vacation Scheme annually, with applications generally opening in early October and closing at the end of January. Successful candidates join us for a two-week programme, which typically takes place between late June and early July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose which practice areas I experience?
When applying, you will be asked to indicate your preferred practice areas. We will make every effort to accommodate your preferences; however, placements are subject to business needs and availability, so we cannot guarantee a specific seat.
Will I experience all of the firm's practice areas?
During the two-week scheme, you will spend one week in one practice area and one week in another, giving you exposure to two different departments during the programme. However, the scheme offers sessions from all areas of the firm to provide you with insight to other departments.
Can I apply again if I am unsuccessful?
Yes. Ideally we welcome candidates to reapply the following year when they have additional information or experiences to support their application.
Will I receive feedback on my application?
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback to candidates who are unsuccessful at the initial application stages. However, we aim to provide feedback to candidates who reach the interview stage, upon request.
Is the Vacation Scheme paid?
Yes. All participants receive payment for the duration of the two-week Vacation Scheme that is at least the London Living Wage rate.
Does completing the Vacation Scheme guarantee a Training Contract?
The Vacation Scheme is an important pathway into our trainee recruitment process. We consider all Summer Vacation Scheme participants for progression to the next stage of our Training Contract recruitment process, and selected candidates are invited to attend our Training Contract Assessment Day.
What we look for in our participants
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Attention to Detail
Ability to produce accurate written work and spot inconsistences or ambiguities.
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Analytical Thinking
Capable of interpreting complex information and applying legal reasoning to real world scenarios.
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Commercial Awareness
Understanding of current affairs, business trends and how they impact clients and legal strategy.
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Communication Skills
Clear, confident and professional in both written and verbal communication.
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Teamwork and Collaboration
Willingness to work with others, share ideas and contribute to a positive team dynamic.
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Initiative and Curiosity
Proactive in seeking and learning opportunities and asking thoughtful questions.
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Resilience and Adaptability
Able to manage completing priorities and respond constructively to feedback
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Time Management
Organised and able to meet deadlines under pressure.
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Ethical and Responsible Values
Passionate about contributing to Joelson's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and B Corp commitments.
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Stakeholder Management
The ability to communicate effectively, build strong relationships, and manage stakeholder expectations professionally.
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Innovation
A proactive approach to innovation, constantly looking for ways to improve processes, enhance client service, and add value.
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Self Directed Learning
The drive to take ownership of personal development, actively seeking feedback, learning opportunities, and new challenges.
Feedback from previous participants
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The vacation scheme provided me with fabulous exposure to what life is like working at Joelson and empowered me to take my next steps in my legal career. Throughout my time I was given engaging tasks and informative induction sessions, whether it be in drafting legal documents, conducting research, or presenting to the team. I would recommend that anyone who is ambitious and keen to start their legal journey applies for this vacation scheme.
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The work environment and culture at Joelson has been really incredible, and I have really enjoyed my time here. From day one and from every single person, I felt welcomed and included. The seat schedule enhanced that experience as I was able to speak to and get to know so many people each day. I felt that each of the department workshops enhanced that ability too, as we were also able to meet others working in departments outside of our two seats.