At S&C, trainees are given the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution from day one. In my first seat with the Competition team, I was entrusted with substantive tasks, from reviewing and drafting merger control submissions to liaising directly with clients. The work was truly global in scope, involving detailed market analysis, research into competition rules across multiple jurisdictions, and close collaboration with colleagues outside the UK.
My second seat in M&A exposed me to a more fast-paced, project-driven environment where I had the chance to work on high-profile deals and gained invaluable insight into how transactions are structured and executed. The responsibility can be challenging, but lawyers at S&C are generous with their time – always ready to answer questions and provide guidance on how to approach different tasks. This culture of approachability and openness makes learning continuous and is incredibly motivating.
Another unique feature of the S&C training programme is its smaller intake. With fewer trainees, the programme feels more personal and flexible, while the five-seat structure means you see a broader range of practice areas, and ensures a well-rounded training experience.