Direct Training Contract 2029

Wedlake Bell is recognised for the high quality of its training and development. We deliberately recruit a small trainee intake, ensuring that every trainee receives personalised support, meaningful responsibility and opportunities to develop their skills.

Our aim is that, by the end of your training contract, you will be a confident and capable newly qualified solicitor with a genuine enthusiasm for your work and a strong foundation for your future career.

We are quick to recognise potential and provide an environment in which you can develop your strengths, take on responsibility and make a real contribution to the firm and our clients.

We currently recruit eight trainees each year and do so two years in advance of the training contract start date.

You can find out more about our Training Contract and apply below. Alternatively, you can learn more about life at Wedlake Bell by applying to our Open Day or Summer Vacation Scheme.

Training Contract

Trainees complete four six-month seats during their Training Contract, providing exposure to a broad range of practice areas and experiences across the firm.

As part of their development, trainees take part in our bespoke training programme, which has been specifically designed to support solicitors in the first two years of their career at Wedlake Bell. Trainees are also in regular contact with the HR team and Training Principal to discuss their progress, development and career goals.

Support

From day one, trainees benefit from a strong support network. Each trainee is paired with a mentor and a Trainee Buddy to help them settle into life at the firm and provide guidance throughout their Training Contract.

For each seat, trainees are allocated a dedicated supervisor who oversees their workload, supports their development and provides regular feedback. Formal mid-seat and end-of-seat reviews help trainees reflect on their progress and identify opportunities for further growth.

Before joining the firm, future trainees are invited to take part in a series of events designed to help them prepare for life at Wedlake Bell and build connections with colleagues and fellow future trainees.

Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)

Applicants for our 2029 Training Contract should be aware that they may be required to qualify through the SQE route.

Wedlake Bell provides financial support for future trainees undertaking the SQE. We cover the cost of SQE preparation courses and examinations, and provide a maintenance grant of £10,000. Delivered in partnership with the University of Law, the programme also includes an LLM qualification and is designed to prepare you for both the SQE assessments and your future career as a trainee solicitor at a City law firm.

Future trainees can choose which University of Law campus they wish to attend.

Candidates from a non-law background will need to complete the PGDL before starting their SQE preparation course. Where applicable, Wedlake Bell will fund the course fees and provide a maintenance grant.

Candidates who have already completed the LPC will not be required to sit the SQE.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including private healthcare, dental cover, an annual travelcard, discounted gym membership, wellbeing resources, a Cycle to Work scheme, 25 days' annual leave and an additional day off on your birthday.

Wedlake Bell has a friendly and sociable culture, with a variety of events taking place throughout the year, including theatre trips, firm socials, an annual walking trip and ski trips. Trainees are encouraged to get involved and make the most of life at the firm.

Applications for our 2029 Training Contracts will open on 1 November 2026. The deadline to submit your application is 3 May 2027 at 23:59.

All applicants must have achieved (or expect to achieve) at least an upper class second for their undergraduate degree course.

To apply, you will need to:

Complete the online application form – access the online application form and apply here.

You will be asked to answer motivation and skills based questions as part of the application form. 

For any questions and queries, contact us via email.

If there is anything you would like to discuss, please contact Annabel Hale, Senior Early Careers Manager - [email protected]

You are eligible to apply if you:

· Are studying law and are in your penultimate or final year at university;

· Have already graduated with a law degree;

· Are in the final year of a non-law degree;

· Have already graduated with a non-law degree; or

· Have started an SQE preparation course.

All applicants must have achieved (or expect to achieve) at least an upper class second for their undergraduate degree course.