What to expect

Choose us for your training contract and, over the course of two years, you’ll get the chance to experience different areas of the law first hand and to work with a variety of colleagues and clients. Our training contract follows the SQE route to qualification.

This is your training contract and it’s up to you to make the most of it, but along the way we offer fantastic opportunities to develop your legal career in a growing firm. Our supervisors are trained and fully supported on an ongoing basis. You’ll have access to high quality work and senior client contact.  We regularly second trainees to our most high profile clients.

Don’t just take it from us! Chambers Student spoke to our trainees and called our training contract programme ‘the real deal’ Womble Bond Dickinson UK LLP – True Picture – Chambers Student Guide

We are now transitioning to qualification through SQE – and those who join us in 2026 will be following this route. We have recognised that the changing landscape gives us a chance to do something different when it comes to educating and training our lawyers. In that sense, we are viewing it as an opportunity to make sure we are giving our trainees the skills they need to be successful in the profession and our business. Aligning with our competency framework, we will be putting more focus on areas such as legal tech, project management and client relationships.

Please take a look at the following document for more information about our training contract route to qualification – Training Contract SQE – FAQs.

It is a lot of responsibility at an early stage of your career but we think that is part of what makes our training programme so appealing. Whilst we’re pushing you outside of your comfort zone, we’re providing you with all of the support you need to succeed.

Take a look at some of the “myths” we want to bust about working in law

Broad experience

You’ll spend six months in four placements (seats), gaining genuine breadth of experience along the way. It’s by having access to this variety, surrounded by supportive, approachable professionals, that we can develop your skills and help you to find your niche.

Trusted to deliver

Whichever of our offices you join us in, you’ll have access to high-quality work and senior client contacts. We regularly second trainees to our most high-profile clients – it’s testament to the level of trust we’re prepared to place in you.

First-class training

We truly believe that the quality of training at Womble Bond Dickinson is second to none. We consistently take the time to ensure that we deliver on our promises so we’re delighted to have been recognised through award nominations.

Strong support

We make sure that your supervisors are well trained and supported on an ongoing basis. So as well as being experts in their field, they’re confident when it comes to passing on their skills and expertise. You’ll also have a buddy to guide you through your first two years and beyond. They’ll be able to answer all your queries and pass on the fruits of their experience – after all, it isn’t long since they were in your shoes.

 

Trainee Secondments

Our trainees have the opportunity to apply for a 6 month client secondment during their training contract. Watch our video here to find out more about secondment experiences.