Training Contract at Shoosmiths
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Shoosmiths
Shoosmiths is a major UK national law firm with offices across England and Scotland. The firm has a broad commercial and personal client practice, with particular strength in real estate, corporate, and banking. It is one of the fastest-growing national firms.
Shoosmiths has a notably modern culture for a firm of its size, with genuine flexible working and a strong investment in wellbeing. Trainees across offices report accessible partners and early client responsibility.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Shoosmiths funds SQE preparation — Shoosmiths funds SQE preparation for all trainees, covering course fees and SRA exam fees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Preferred provider: BPP University Law School
Selection Criteria
What Shoosmiths looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Any commercial experience is valued. Shoosmiths accepts direct TC applications across multiple offices.
The Process
Application timeline
Apply to your preferred office.
Psychometric and situational judgement tests.
Group exercise, written task, and partner interview.
Offers made on a rolling basis across offices.
How to Win
Application tips for Shoosmiths
Be specific about your preferred office and why - Shoosmiths spans from Edinburgh to Southampton.
The firm values candidates who demonstrate genuine commitment to the region of their chosen office.
SQE tip: Some firms view positively candidates already preparing for SQE1 — it signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →
Assessment
Interview & assessment format
Process stages
- 1Online application
- 2Online tests
- 3Assessment centre (written, group, partner interview)
Interview tips
- —Show commercial awareness and client focus.
- —Demonstrate awareness of the regional market for your preferred office.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
Shoosmiths offers genuinely flexible working relative to the market.
Early partner exposure is a genuine feature, especially outside London.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Shoosmiths
Shoosmiths funds SQE preparation for all trainees, covering course fees and SRA exam fees. A maintenance grant is paid during the study period. The firm uses an appointed SQE provider - details confirmed at offer stage.
Preferred SQE provider: BPP University Law School
The Full Picture
The full qualification journey
TC + SQE — here's the complete path from application to the roll.
SQE1 and SQE2 steps link to live pass rate data. Full SQE explained →
Got your TC? Now plan your SQE.
Your firm covers a lot — but you still need to pass SQE1 and SQE2. Here's where to start.
FAQ
Shoosmiths — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Shoosmiths take per year?
What is the Shoosmiths training contract salary?
Does Shoosmiths fund SQE preparation?
What is the Shoosmiths training contract application deadline?
What does Shoosmiths look for in training contract applications?
What is the Shoosmiths assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Shoosmiths's official graduate recruitment portal.
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