Freshfields |

Employees: 501 to 1000

We are a global team of experts and change-makers, shaping ambition into impact. With 300 years’ experience, we work at the forefront of law to give clients the edge. Join one of our schemes or programmes and experience first-hand how we make a positive difference for our clients, our communities, and each other. At Freshfields, we don’t wait for the future of law to unfold – we create it.

Who We Are

The challenges facing organisations are constantly evolving – and so are we. Every challenge, every industry and every day is an opportunity to set new standards and drive change.

At Freshfields, ambition is a shared mindset that drives us forward. Through visionary training, global opportunities and world-class mentorship, we invite students and graduates to see what is possible and shape their potential into real progress.

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First Years Insight Scheme

The perfect way to shape your future. Our programme gives first-year undergraduates insight on the essential skills to thrive as a commercial lawyer.

Key dates

Event date: 7 and 8 April 2027

You will need to be ready to join us in person in London on both days.

Location: London

Application window: Applications will open on 30 November 2026 and close on 12 February 2027. Applications are on a non-rolling basis, so applications will be reviewed following the close of the recruitment window.

Eligibility

We welcome applications from first-year undergraduate students from any degree discipline.

Freshfields trainees man and women speaking

Vacation Schemes

Get a taste of life at Freshfields on our Summer Vacation Scheme. Experience the work we do, develop lifelong skills, and gain a unique insight into our culture. During the scheme, we will have the opportunity to find out about each other and decide if a place on our Trainee Associate Programme is the right next step for your career.

Key dates

Applications open: 1 September 2026

Applications close: 30 October 2026 – please note that we recruit on a rolling basis, so the application window may close earlier than advertised.

Duration: We run two three-week schemes during the summer.

Scheme 1: 28 June 2027 to 16 July 2027

Scheme 2: 26 July 2027 to 13 August 2027

Our Summer Vacation Scheme is a paid placement.

You will receive a stipend of £515 per week to put towards accommodation and living costs. We will pay 50% of the total stipend two weeks before you start at Freshfields. The remaining amount will be paid during the first three days of your placement.

We are committed to ensuring our opportunities are accessible to everyone. You will have the opportunity to inquire about our accommodation and bursary support offerings.

Eligibility

Our Summer Vacation Scheme is open to penultimate-year undergraduate students, final-year undergraduate students, and graduates from any degree discipline. As this is a paid placement, you must have the right to work in the UK. If you are on a UK study visa, the scheme must take place outside your term time.

Trainee Associate Programme

Elevate your career with our eight-seat Trainee Associate Programme. Shape your ambition into impact with a global firm that's shaping the future of law.

Key dates

Next application window: Applications will open on 1 October and close on 13 November 2026.
Programme start: 2029 or 2030.

Eligibility

Our programme is open to penultimate- and final-year undergraduate students from any degree discipline, as well as recent graduates. To apply, you’ll need to be eligible to start the Trainee Associate Programme in either 2028 or 2029.

Freshfields trainees man and woman speaking

Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme

Start your legal career where ambition meets opportunity. Our six-year Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme combines hands-on experience, global exposure, and training to help you qualify as a solicitor ready to make an impact from day one. Based in our London office, you’ll take on complex challenges, supported by a culture that inspires learning, growth, and evolution.

Key Dates

Programme start date: September 2027

Location: London

Application window: 2 November 2026 – 28 Janaury 2027

What to expect

Phase 1 - Years one to four

Rotate annually through our market-leading practice groups.
Work four days a week in our London office and spend one day a week studying towards your Law LLB at BPP’s Waterloo campus.
Receive mentorship from dedicated supervisor, buddy and partner within your team to help you manage your working day.

Phase 2 - Years five to six

Complete shorter rotations in our London practice groups, with the opportunity to go on a client or network secondment towards the end of year six.
Continue your studies at BPP, focusing on the SQE content with study leave included so you can prepare to pass your SQE exams.

Salary and benefits

Starting salary of £28,000, increasing annually as you progress.
£5,000 sign-on bonus to help with travel and housing costs.
All tuition fees covered - no student debt.
26 days holiday per year.

Eligibility

Our Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme is open to applicants with AAB at A level (or equivalent) and at least seven GCSEs at grade 6/B or above, including English and Maths. You must also have been resident in the UK for three years before starting the programme.

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