Pathfinder - First Year Insight Programme

Pathfinder is our flagship first-year insight and development programme, giving aspiring commercial lawyers a taste of life at a global law firm. Your journey with us will start with two days in-person at our London office, followed by a six-month virtual series of professional development sessions. Once completed, you’ll be ready to be fast-tracked to a Linklaters Vacation Scheme assessment centre.

Day 1

Join your cohort in the London HQ for a Partner led introduction, a commercial understanding masterclass and an afternoon of work shadowing in a practice area of your choice. The evening will be spent socialising and networking with your peers and trainees, associates and Trainee Recruitment team.

Day 2

Return to Silk Street for a tailored Personal Brand Masterclass, more work shadowing and the opportunity to ask questions to lawyers of all levels.

We value ongoing development so after your initial two days with us, we will provide you with exclusive resources and sessions for you to hone your legal skills and develop your understanding of the legal sector. You’ll also be paired up with a lawyer from a practice area of your choice for a 1-1 coaching session.

Vacation Scheme Assessment Centre

All candidates who complete the programme will be in the best possible position to secure a Vacation Scheme with us and will be fast-tracked to an assessment centre.

Key Dates and Eligibility

Eligibility:

• First year students studying a three-year undergraduate degree

• Second year students studying a four-year undergraduate degree

• Open to law and non-law students at UK or Irish universities

  Application window:

• Applications open 2 December 2025 and closes 4 February 2026

  Scheme Dates:

• In-person dates: Scheme 1: 7 April 2026 and 8 April 2026 / Scheme 2: 9 April and 10 April 2026

• Development series: one session a month from May – September 2026