Overview
We offer vacation scheme placements in our Basingstoke, Birmingham, Cambridge, Guildford, London, Oxford and Reading offices. You will spend time working in one of the firm’s practice areas in either business services, dispute resolution, private individuals or real estate.
If you are applying for our Vacation Scheme Programme in 2026 you will also be applying for our Trainee Solicitor Programme in 2028 and do not need to make a separate application.
We run two Summer vacation schemes each year. There are 12 places available on each scheme across all of our locations. The dates of our 2026 vacation schemes are as follows:
Summer scheme one: Monday 15 June - Friday 19 June 2026
Summer scheme two: Monday 29 June - Friday 3 July 2026
Responsibilities
Throughout the week you will get hands-on experience enabling you to develop an understanding of our work and culture. You can expect to be involved in real assignments, whether this be drafting documents, attending client and team meetings, conducting research and sometimes even attending court hearings or arbitrations. You will be allocated a trainee buddy and senior mentor who will be on hand to support and guide you throughout your time with us. During your week at the firm, you can also expect to get involved with:
* Introductory sessions to our practice areas;
* The opportunity to meet with our CEO to learn more about the firm’s vision and strategic objectives;
* Networking and social opportunities with colleagues across the firm.
Essential & Desirable Criteria
The vacation scheme is open to candidates who are planning to take up a training contract in two years’ time. We are looking for dedicated, diverse candidates with a strong academic record and commercial awareness.
Eligibility criteria:
* Penultimate year or final year law undergraduate, final year non-law undergraduate or post-graduates/career changers
* Have, or be on track for a 2:1 degree in any discipline
* Dedicated to a career in law
* Be a great team player
* Have exceptional communication skills
We understand that extenuating circumstances can happen during studies and therefore if you do not meet these criteria and feel that your grades do not reflect your abilities, please include the context of this within your application and this will be considered.
At our firm, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is a priority and at the heart of everything we do. We actively want to attract a diverse workforce and welcome applications from everyone, from all backgrounds. We are committed to promoting an inclusive culture where everyone can be their full selves and experience being seen and heard. You can find out more about our firm’s commitment, initiatives and Pennclusion committeeshere.
We ensure that there are equal opportunities and treatment for all job applicants and employees, at all stages of the recruitment process and employment, regardless of age, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and social background.
We are committed to ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to apply and be considered for any role, and our recruitment process is accessible to all candidates. If you would like to request an adjustment (including requests for alternative formats) to our process, please contact the early careers team at TraineePost@penningtonslaw.com
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