For aspiring solicitors, the vacation scheme at Blake Morgan is one of the most effective routes to gaining a training contract. It’s not just a summer placement—it’s a genuine opportunity to experience life at a leading regional law firm and demonstrate your potential to future employers. At LawGrad Launch, we specialise in helping graduates prepare for schemes like this, giving you the best chance to succeed.
What Is the Blake Morgan Vacation Scheme?
The Blake Morgan vacation scheme runs during the summer and gives law students an immersive introduction to the firm. Participants spend time in different departments, get involved with real legal work, and experience the firm’s values in action. The scheme is designed to mirror the training contract process, so strong performance can lead directly to an offer of a training contract.
Why Apply for the Scheme?
There are several reasons why this scheme is highly sought after:
- Real legal experience
You’ll be given meaningful work, such as drafting documents, conducting research, and supporting client preparation. This is your chance to move beyond textbooks and gain practical skills. - Clear route to a training contract
Blake Morgan views the vacation scheme as a pipeline for trainee recruitment. Excelling during the scheme puts you in a strong position to secure a training contract. - Exposure to multiple practice areas
You’ll rotate across teams, gaining insight into areas such as litigation, corporate, private client, and commercial law. This variety helps you make informed decisions about your future specialism. - Understanding the culture
Beyond the legal work, you’ll experience the firm’s ethos. Blake Morgan is known for its supportive, collaborative environment, and the scheme includes networking and social opportunities with trainees, associates, and partners.
The Application Process
Applying for the vacation scheme is competitive. Each year, applications typically open in late autumn for the following summer. The process usually involves:
- Online application form – detailing your academics, experiences, and reasons for applying.
- Screening stage – which may include a short interview or video assessment.
- Assessment centre – where you could face written tasks, group exercises, and interviews.
Strong applicants demonstrate not only academic ability but also communication, teamwork, and commercial awareness. At LawGrad Launch, we coach candidates to highlight these qualities effectively and prepare thoroughly for every stage.
A Typical Day on the Scheme
Every day is different, but your time could include:
- Sitting in on client meetings or conference calls.
- Drafting letters, research notes, or case summaries.
- Shadowing solicitors as they prepare cases or negotiate deals.
- Joining trainee or partner-led workshops.
- Attending networking events that give you a sense of the firm’s culture.
This combination of real work, observation, and networking gives you a well-rounded view of what life as a solicitor is really like.
Making the Most of Your Experience
To stand out during the scheme, you need more than technical knowledge. Here are some proven strategies:
- Be proactive – Offer to take on tasks, ask questions, and show curiosity.
- Network widely – Build connections across teams; how you interact with people matters as much as the quality of your work.
- Seek feedback – Use it to show self-awareness and willingness to improve.
- Reflect carefully – Keep notes on what you enjoy most and where you shine. This helps you in future interviews and when choosing a practice area.
Why It Matters
Blake Morgan’s vacation scheme is more than just a summer placement. It’s a launchpad into the profession and a chance to demonstrate you’re ready for a training contract. Many trainees at the firm started their journey on this scheme, using it as the bridge between university and practice.
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
At LawGrad Launch, we understand how competitive vacation schemes are—and how important they are to your future career. We work with graduates one-to-one to:
- Craft tailored applications that highlight your strengths.
- Develop commercial awareness and interview skills.
- Prepare you for assessment centres with practice exercises.
- Build the confidence you need to perform at your best.
Final Thoughts
The Blake Morgan vacation scheme is an excellent opportunity to gain practical insight, build relationships, and take a significant step toward securing a training contract. With the right preparation, you can make the most of this chance to showcase your ability and enthusiasm.
At LawGrad Launch, we’re here to help you every step of the way—from application to interview to assessment day—so you can secure your place and begin your legal career with confidence.