Vacation Placement - Belfast

Our Vacation Placement programme is the perfect introduction to Pinsent Masons and a route to securing a Training Contract at the firm. We design, structure and develop the placement programme to give you an experience which is practical and enjoyable whilst authentically reflecting the Trainee Solicitor experience.

If you gain a placement, it’s because we already see you as a potential Trainee. During your time with us, we’ll do our best to give you every chance to prove us right. That’s why our Vacation Placement students don’t need to make a separate application for our Training Contract programme. In our eyes you’re already in the running. During your placement we’ll provide you with the opportunity to develop your knowledge, skills and confidence. We’ll gather feedback from your team which, together with the results of your assessments, will help us determine the outcome of your application.

For many people, our two-week programme offers the first opportunity to work in a professional environment. We support you in that first step through a centralised, day-one induction where you’ll be welcomed to the firm and encouraged to make the most of every opportunity.

If you join us for an in-house placement, you’ll gain full exposure to one practice area, allowing you to form strong relationships and get really involved in the team’s work. You will be assigned a dedicated supervisor and buddy who will support you through the placement, assign hands-on tasks, provide feedback, and answer your questions about the firm.

The aim of our programme is to give you an opportunity to experience what it’s like to be part of the Pinsent Masons team and get the chance to develop transferable professional skills, building your confidence along the way. It’s also a great opportunity to get a feel for the social scene, make friends and start building a useful network of contacts.

Candidates typically make applications for a Vacation Placement programme taking place two years ahead of when they would like to commence a Training Contract.

The deadline for applications for our Belfast Vacation Placement programme is Thursday 30 January 2025.

What we're looking for:

A focus on detail – With a conscientious approach, you’ll have the ability to read and absorb large amounts of reference material and spot errors quickly. Detail is important when it comes to your own writing too, ensuring it’s always clear and accurate.

An interest in business – We’re a purpose-led, professional services firm, with law at the core, so you’ll have a genuine interest in how business works. That means keeping up-to-date with the latest business issues, as well as appreciating how legal expertise can support and steer commercial organisations.

Intellectual capability – You have the intellectual curiosity to explore new approaches and ask others’ opinions. With an analytical approach, you think things through and weigh up the implications, but also have the capacity to think on your feet to find solutions.

Open – You’ll be approachable, confident and comfortable engaging with people from different backgrounds and experiences to your own. Whether you’re communicating with colleagues or clients, you’ll understand the need to adapt your approach to suit your audience.

Drive – You’ll need to have a genuine passion for excellence, and the drive, determination and positivity to go above and beyond to achieve your goals. With a proactive mindset, you’re always ready to learn from your feedback, so you can improve your performance in the future.

Personal responsibility - You understand that taking responsibility for your successes and acknowledging when things go wrong will help you to continually improve and achieve your career aims. When you are aware of your strengths and weaknesses, you inspire others to trust your skills.

Positive impact – With the confidence to express your own opinions and assert your point of view when necessary, you’ll be a compelling and persuasive communicator. You will be comfortable seeking assistance when needed which will further demonstrate your self-awareness.

Organisation - You have a clear sense of what is important and track your progress towards achieving your goals. By being organised and planning and managing your work effectively, you ensure that you always produce high-quality work on time.