Eversheds Sutherland is one of the world’s largest full-service law firms, with a strong reputation for innovation, international reach, and sector expertise. With offices across the UK and beyond, the firm’s vacation scheme is a highly sought-after opportunity for aspiring solicitors to gain hands-on experience, network with professionals, and improve their chances of securing a training contract. Here’s everything you need to know about the Eversheds Sutherland vacation scheme—and how to make your application shine.
Why Apply to the Eversheds Sutherland Vacation Scheme?
The Eversheds Sutherland vacation scheme is designed to give law students and graduates a real insight into what life is like at the firm. Participants typically spend one to two weeks in a UK office, working in different practice areas, attending training sessions, and completing real tasks for clients.
Here’s why it’s worth applying:
- Real Work: You’ll be treated like a trainee and gain practical legal experience from day one.
- Networking Opportunities: You’ll meet partners, associates, and trainees who can offer honest insight into life at the firm.
- Assessment for Training Contracts: Most vacation scheme participants are assessed for a training contract offer during or shortly after the scheme.
- Professional Development: The scheme includes skills workshops, legal talks, and application guidance to support your career.
If you’re serious about building a career in commercial law, this is a valuable stepping stone.
What Does Eversheds Sutherland Look For?
Eversheds Sutherland seeks candidates who are commercially aware, adaptable, and able to work well in a team. Strong academics are expected—typically AAB at A-Level and a 2:1 degree—but beyond grades, the firm values:
- Curiosity and a Willingness to Learn
- Motivation to Work in a Global Firm
- Resilience and a Growth Mindset
- A Genuine Interest in Clients and Their Industries
Your application should demonstrate these qualities through specific examples. Focus on achievements that show leadership, problem-solving, or initiative—whether from university, work, volunteering, or extracurriculars.
Application Tips for the Vacation Scheme
To stand out in a competitive pool of applicants, you need more than just polished writing. You need a strategy.
Here are some essential tips:
- Tailor Your Application: Reference recent Eversheds Sutherland deals, practice areas, or initiatives that genuinely interest you.
- Be Specific: Show rather than tell. Use concrete examples to highlight your skills.
- Reflect on Your Journey: Talk about what you’ve learned and how your experiences have shaped your interest in commercial law.
- Prepare for Online Tests: You may need to complete a situational judgment test or other assessments as part of the process.
- Start Early: The best applications are rarely rushed. Leave time for feedback and redrafting.
What Happens During the Scheme?
Vacation scheme participants typically rotate between departments such as corporate, litigation, real estate, and employment. You may be asked to conduct legal research, draft documents, or sit in on client meetings.
You’ll also attend:
- Trainee Q&A panels
- Partner presentations
- Social events with colleagues
- Formal interviews for a training contract
Performance during the scheme is assessed closely. Make sure to show professionalism, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn throughout your placement.
How LawGrad Launch Can Help You Succeed
Applying for a vacation scheme at Eversheds Sutherland can be daunting—but you don’t have to go it alone. At LawGrad Launch, we offer tailored one-to-one coaching designed specifically for law students and graduates applying to top firms.
We can help you:
- Refine your application and personal statement
- Prepare for situational judgment and psychometric tests
- Practise interview techniques and commercial awareness questions
- Boost your confidence for assessment days and networking
Get expert support to launch your legal career with confidence and clarity.