Frequently Asked Questions
To help you decide if Beachcroft LLP is the kind of law firm you want to join, here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about our vacation placements and training contracts.
1. Do you run a work experience or placement scheme?
We run a paid vacation placement scheme which takes place for a week each summer. Please visit our vacation placement page on this site for more information.
2. Do you accept applications from students with a non-law degree?
Yes - we welcome students of all disciplines to apply for training contracts. At least 50% of our recruited trainee solicitors have a non-law degree.
3. Do you accept applicants with a 2.2 degree?
We prefer a 2.1 degree. However, academic qualifications are not our only criteria. We value work experience gained within the legal field, a variety of interests and well-thought out responses to the questions we ask on the application form. If you have a 2.2 degree, we suggest that you include all relevant experience you have gained plus any further/higher education and training.
4. Will you provide feedback following submission of my application form?
Due to the high volume of applications we receive each year, we are unable to provide each person with personal feedback. When you submit your form you will receive confirmation of receipt. We will also inform you whether you've been successful or not as soon as possible.
5. I was unsuccessful this year. Can I re-submit my application for next year's selection process?
In accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 we do not keep recruitment records for longer than six months after the recruitment selection process. If you would like us to consider you again, please re-submit an application form. Remember that you will have undertaken an extra year of your course or work/travel experience to tell us about.
6. What happens once I have submitted my application form?
The closing date for applications is 1 August* each year. If you are successful at application form stage we will contact you before the end of September to invite you to an assessment centre. This is a full day at either our London or Manchester office where you will undertake a variety of activities including group exercises, a written exercise, structured interview and a verbal reasoning ability test. We will ensure that you know what to expect before you attend the day.
Assessment centres enable us to see the 'real you' and you also get the opportunity to ask questions about us and meet the key partners and the HR team involved in the recruitment process.
* Some years the Firm runs a second recruitment round with a closing date of 1 March, this is normally open to final year law, GDL and LPC students only.
7. When will I hear if I am successful after the assessment centre?
We pride ourselves on our efficient recruitment process. We aim to contact all successful candidates within 48 hours of the assessment day. We provide feedback upon request following the assessment day, whether you are successful or not. Feedback is very useful to find out what went well and what didn't go so well to help you to improve your performance in future assessment and interview activities.
The next and final stage of selection is the panel interview: a structured interview with two partners. Offers and/or feedback are made promptly following the interview. Remember to be yourself and try to overcome your nerves before this interview: This is another opportunity for you promote your skills and achievements.
8. How many seats does a trainee solicitor complete during their training contract with the firm?
Trainee solicitors complete four six-month seats during their two-year training contract. During this time they also complete the Professional Skills Course (PSC), organised in-house by the University of the West of England.
In addition to the PSC, the firm offers a continuous programme of in-house technical training that trainee solicitors are encouraged to attend. Mid and End of Seat Reviews take place during each seat by the relevant seat supervisor, who along with designated Location Training Partners, will develop and encourage you throughout your training.
9. How does Beachcroft LLP promote personal and career development after the Training Contract?
As a firm committed to developing employees we offer a range of training opportunities. We offer a Property Diploma across the country. Departmental training includes a mix of in-house and external training and weekends away.
In addition to training, the firm runs a series of Development Centres to help lawyers progress to Associate and Partner level.
10. Do you accept applications from students with foreign qualifications?
Yes, we will consider all qualifications equivalent to those at the same level in the UK. If you need more information, please email us with your specific query.
11. Does it matter which provider you do your LPC with?
Beachcroft do not currently request that you study for your LPC at a particular provider.
12. Do you provide LPC funding?
Yes we do, as well as funding for your GDL and a maintenance grant. We are also happy to pay fees and the grant retrospectively.
For Law Society guidelines about work permits and overseas study visit the Law Society's website: http://www.lawsoc.org.uk/
For further information about a Beachcroft LLP career email trainee@beachcroft.co.uk.