Winter Vacation Scheme

Our Vacation Schemes are a great way to experience our cutting-edge work and collaborative culture, as it can be difficult determining which firm will provide the right environment for you to succeed in.

From day one on this scheme, you’ll gain real and valuable skills you’ll use and develop throughout your career, working with industry-defining clients and industry-leading colleagues on live deals and cases.

You’ll be able to attend events and presentations where you’ll learn about key elements of our practice while developing the skills you need to perform at the highest level and become a successful international commercial lawyer.

There will be time for you to engage with our early careers recruitment team, lawyers and partners as well as other participants on your scheme so you can broaden your knowledge of the firm and start building your network.

You’ll also have the chance to participate in our REACH Buddy Scheme. This is a mentoring scheme that is run by A&O Shearman’s Race & Ethnicity network. It offers mentorship during the scheme and beyond and is focused on improving the experiences of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities within the firm. The scheme is also deeply committed to enabling social mobility regardless of racial or ethnic background to ensure every one of us excels to our full ability.

Our Winter Vacation Scheme is for final year students only (graduating Summer 2026) and will take place in our London office. You’ll earn £500 per week, and financial assistance for travel and accommodation will be discussed, if required, when you receive an offer.

If your hard work, passion and ability shines through, you’ll be considered for a training contract at the end of your placement.

With high expectations and high performance, this is an environment where you can constantly learn and grow. We recruit the best and ask for the best of you. In return, you’ll enjoy challenge, support and a place where you can belong and excel.