Becoming a Trainee at Howard Kennedy

Trainee FAQs

1. When will you start accepting applications?
   We recruit one year in advance, applications will be accepted from January each year for Training Contracts starting in September of the following year.
   
   
2. What is the closing date for applications?
   The closing date is late April. The exact date is confirmed on the application.
   
   
3. Do I need to have completed my LPC at the time of application?
   You must have completed your LPC, or be due to complete your LPC by July of the year your training contract will start.
   
   
4. Do you offer any paralegal positions?
   We regularly have opportunities for Paralegals to join us in various departments, these vacancies will be advertised on the careers pages on our website.
   
   
5. Do you fund the GDL and/or LPC?
   We will pay the full fees for the LPC and are able to offer a maintenance grant of £6,500 but do not offer any funding towards the GDL. We are not able to offer funding for the LPC retrospectively.
   
   
6. Do you interview on a rolling basis?
   No, all interviews will be held after the closing date for applications.
   
   
7. Do you offer work experience or vacation schemes?
   We don't offer work experience or vacation schemes but do hold open days every year which provide a great opportunity to find out more about the firm. We are holding virtual insight events in late March, applications are now open and can be found on the careers pages of the website.
   
   
8. Do you accept applications from non-law graduates?
   Our trainees come from a diverse range of backgrounds and we welcome applications from those with undergraduate law degrees, or any other subject.
   
   
9. Do you accept applications from mature students and career changers?
   Yes we do – we like to assess everyone on their individual merits and value having a diverse body of trainees.
   
   
10. What qualifications do I need?
    Whilst it is useful for us to understand your educational background we do not score grades or screen out applications based on grades. You need to have completed a qualifying law degree, or a non-law degree (or equivalent) and the GDL in order to apply for a Training contract with us. 
    
    
11. I studied abroad; how do I enter my qualifications?
    Please tell us their equivalent value or the relevant scale. You can find more information on the UCAS website.
    
    
12. Will I hear whether my application has been successful?
    We will contact all applicants whether successful or unsuccessful within one month of the closing date.
    
    
13. What happens after that?
    Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an assessment day which will take place following the closing date. 
    
    
14. Will I receive feedback on my application?
    Regrettably, due to the volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to give feedback to every applicant. We will, however, offer feedback for all candidates who attend our assessment day.
    
    
15. How many training contracts do you typically offer?
    Our trainee intake is usually between 8-10 each year.
    
    
16. I applied last year – can I re-apply?
    Yes we accept applications from previous applicants, please ensure you tell us what stage you reached last year.
    
    
17. I am currently a paralegal at Howard Kennedy. Can I apply?
    Yes you may apply, please make sure you inform your line manager that you are applying for a training contract. The application and assessment process is the same for both internal and external applicants.
    
    
18. What is the recruitment process?
    You will need to apply using our online application. Any applications received outside of this will not be accepted.  We will contact you during May or June to let you know what stage your application has reached, and whether we will invite you to an assessment day.
    
    
19. What will a Training Contract involve?
    As a firm, we offer services both to businesses and to individuals. Our Training Contracts are geared to give our trainees exposure to a range of work. We offer 4 seats of 6 months in different departments, including our core areas of business: Real Estate, Corporate, Dispute Resolution, Employment, Private Client and Family. We try to match trainees’ individual interests to the seats that they complete. We offer a range of different support and development opportunities during the two years, including providing a junior and senior mentor; legal training sessions and skills development sessions such as networking and giving presentations.
    
    
20. Where will I be based?
    We are all currently working remotely but are looking forward to being able to return to the office. We operate from one single office, located at No.1 London Bridge, SE1 9BG.