About this programme
Our International Training Programme seeks to create a culture of learning and development from the time you accept an offer with us. Before starting with us you will be sponsored to attend a Masters level preparatory course which includes the SQE1 and SQE2 examinations which are required to qualify as a solicitor. For non-law degree joiners a law conversion course will be sponsored before you attend the SQE preparatory course.
Upon successful completion of your examinations, you will start your two-year programme by participating in the International Training Programme Induction Week held in London. This includes sessions from inspiring keynote speakers, networking events and team building activities. It will also cover professional skills training which will equip you with the knowledge you will need to launch your career and help you leverage your international network right from day one!
Across the two-year programme, you will undertake four, six-month rotations within our practice groups, giving you breadth in your knowledge of the law as well as the practical skills that will stay with you for your entire career. You may also get an opportunity to complete client secondments or international secondments as one of your rotations.
To support your learning and development goals you will have the opportunity to attend several training sessions to augment your technical competence, organisational knowledge, and professional skills. You will also have a strong support network of supervisors, buddies and mentors as well as a dedicated point of contact in the Early Careers team who you can rely on throughout your time on the programme.
By the end of your Training Programme, you will emerge with a clearer understanding of where your talent and interests lie, which will guide your decision in applying for our newly qualified solicitor roles at the firm. The experience you’ll have gained - and the networks you’ll have nurtured - will provide a strong foundation for your future career at DLA Piper.
Accessibility
At DLA Piper, we are committed to making reasonable adjustments and removing disability-related barriers. This is so everyone, irrespective of a visible or non-visible disability, neurodivergence, a long-term health condition or injury, has an equitable opportunity to succeed in our recruitment process.
If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please get in touch with our Early Careers team and we will be happy to support you.
We understand that sharing your needs with us may feel daunting. We will have an open discussion with you about what will work best for you in the recruitment process, and you only need to share what you feel comfortable with. Our team will ensure that the information you provide will be treated confidentially. The information will only be shared with others involved in the process, on your approval, and where necessary.
We will use the information you share to put adjustments in place for you at any stage, or at multiple stages, of the recruitment process. This is to enable you to perform to the best of your ability, and to have an equitable opportunity to perform and thrive.
Frequently asked questions
How many training contracts do you offer every year?
We offer up to 65 training contracts across the UK each year.
Do you offer international secondments to trainees?
Yes. You will have the opportunity to apply for an international secondment during your training contract.
How many rotations do you offer during the training contract?
Our training contract offers four rotations, each lasting six months.
What is the process for deciding which rotations I will be allocated to?
Each trainee has a dedicated Programme Manager who will meet with them at the mid point of each seat. During that meeting upcoming seat preferences are discussed and recorded.
I am eligible to work throughout the Summer Internship, but will require visa support for the International Training Programme. Can I still apply?
Yes, we accept applications from students and graduates requiring a work permit. If we offer you a training contract, we will support your application to obtain a work permit or visa. However, please note that it is your responsibility to provide all the necessary information and documentation to the UK Border Agency. Furthermore, any offer we make will be conditional upon your work permit/visa application being approved.
I am interested in applying directly to your International Training Programme (Training Contract). How can I do this?
We only recruit our future Trainees Solicitors through the Summer Internship programme and do not offer direct Training Contract routes.
Our Summer Internship programme is a fantastic way to get to experience working at DLA Piper. It will help you to get to know our firm and our people. The three-week internship will give you a strong understanding of our values and what we stand for and whether DLA Piper and its practice groups are right for you. At the end of the Summer Internship, you'll be assessed for a place on our International Training Programme (Training Contract) in the office where you complete your internship.