LLB+ Student to Solicitor

Earn While You Learn - Applications are now closed and will reopen Summer 2026.

Start building your legal career with paid, practical experience that makes a difference. At Thompsons, you will be part of a purpose-driven firm that stands up for individuals. As one of Scotland’s leading personal injury and employment law specialists, our work is people-focused, values-led and often life-changing.

The LLB+ Programme gives you the opportunity to build real legal experience while developing the skills and confidence to take your next career step. You will not be watching from the sidelines: you will contribute to live cases, speak with clients and learn from experienced colleagues who will support you throughout the programme.

Whether you are in your second year of the LLB or preparing for your Diploma, LLB+ offers a clear route from student to solicitor. You will gain experience, build professional connections and develop with us at each stage of your studies.

This is paid legal experience during the summer, giving you the chance to see how a law firm works and contribute to meaningful legal work. You will develop practical skills, learn from experienced colleagues and follow a structured pathway towards a traineeship. With mentoring, skills development and support at every stage, you can build your confidence while working with a firm that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

Who Can Apply?

We welcome applications from students who:

Are currently studying an LLB at a Scottish university (2nd year onwards)
Are eligible to work in the UK
Have a genuine interest in a long-term legal career with Thompsons

Programme Structure

Stage 1: Legal Intern

Stage 1 gives second, third and fourth-year LLB students the chance to join us as a Legal Intern and start building practical experience. Paid at the Scottish Living Wage, you will typically work in our Legal Enquiries Team or support another department, developing skills that will strengthen your studies and prepare you for your future career.

Stage 2: Trainee Apprenticeship

Stage 2 is open to students studying for the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice. Through a structured rotation, you will gain experience in a legal team, our Legal Enquiries Team and one of our support departments, such as HR, Finance, IT or Facilities. This varied experience will help you understand how the whole firm works and develop the commercial awareness and practical skills needed for a successful traineeship.

Stage 3: Traineeship Offer

Perform strongly throughout the programme and you will have the opportunity to apply for a traineeship with us. Each year, subject to business needs, we offer traineeships to students who demonstrate commitment, ability and a genuine connection with our values.

Support & Development

You will be supported from day one. A full induction and ongoing training will help you settle in, build your skills and feel confident in your role. You will also have regular check-ins with a dedicated supervisor, access to our training platform and mentoring sessions focused on your development. Everything is designed to help you gain experience, grow in confidence and get your legal career off to a flying start.

What We Are Looking For

We are here to support you, but we also need you to bring your best. We are looking for people who are dependable, professional, and motivated. Turning up, staying organised, and respecting confidentiality matters. We also understand university life, that is why being able to balance your studies with your work is key. Keep making progress in both, and we will support you every step of the way.

A Programme That Grows With You

LLB+ is designed to grow with you. We regularly review the programme to make sure it provides meaningful experience, valuable development and a clear route towards a legal career. By joining us, you will become part of a growing community of future solicitors whom we want to see succeed.

Ready to Apply?

Application process:

Submit your CV and a short video.
Attend an in-person interview and complete a practical IT skills test.

Ready to take the next step in your legal career? Show us what you can bring to Thompsons click here to apply today.

Please note we do not accept applications or introductions from recruitment agencies for this programme. All enquiries and applications should be made directly by candidates.