Bates Wells FAQs

Your questions about Bates Wells, answered!

What are the firm’s plans regarding the SQE?

We have moved to the SQE route to qualification for Training Contracts commencing in 2024 and beyond. If you are working towards or have already completed your LPC, you are still eligible to apply.

How long does it take to receive a decision after an interview?

Decisions following an interview are usually communicated within 10 days.

When are applications open?

Applications for vacation schemes are open 1 October 2025— 3 December 2025. Applications for training contracts are open 1 January 2026 - 1 April 2026.

What sort of benefits are available?

Benefits include: life insurance, private healthcare, cycle to work scheme, gym, employee assistance programme, pension, profit sharing scheme, recognition scheme, season ticket loan, wellbeing weeks, access to complementary therapies, volunteering days, agile working, an extra day of annual leave (usually in December) and more.

How many trainees does the firm recruit each year?

Bates Wells takes on six trainees per year, and generally takes on about six trainees per vacation scheme (12 in total).

When does the Vacation Scheme take place?

The In-person Vacation Scheme takes place between 13 - 24 April 2026.

Who is eligible to apply for a vacation scheme?

Our vacation scheme is open to finalists and graduates of all degree disciplines, along with penultimate year law students.

If you complete a vacation scheme with us, you will automatically be considered for a training contract and therefore you must be available to begin a training contract in September 2028.

I’m a non-law student, am I required to complete the PGDL before starting SQE studies?

Yes, we require all non-law offer holders to complete the PGDL prior to starting the SQE. The firm will cover the cost of PGDL course fees, and offer a maintenance grant of £10,000

Apply now!