Welcome to the second of our 2023 – Trainee Insight interviews with our current Teacher Stern trainees! In these insights, we will hear first-hand experiences and give you a real flavour of what life is like as a trainee with us.

If you are interested in applying for a training contract with Teacher Stern then we recommended you apply for our Vacation Scheme Programme. Participation on the programme will not only give you the opportunity to come and meet us in person, but it will enable you to get an inside look at what it would be like to train and work at Teacher Stern.

Name: Rabia Azam

Previous seats: N/A

Current seat: Property Litigation

What can you expect as a trainee at Teacher Stern?

As a Trainee at Teacher Stern, you are involved in a lot of high quality and diverse work which enables you to build a good foundation to find your strengths and overcome challenges with plenty of individual responsibility along the way. Alongside this, you are surrounded by supportive staff to help you through the highs and lows of your Training Contract.

What work do you get involved in on a day-to-day basis?

I have been fortunate enough to get involved in a range of different matters which include mortgage repossessions, possessions of residential property and landlord and tenant disputes.

On a day-to-day basis, my work usually includes: drafting claim forms and particulars of claim; taking client instructions and reviewing any further documentation required; drafting witness statements; liaising with Counsel regarding our client’s objectives and being on hold to the Court for many hours!

What have you enjoyed the most?

So far, I’ve enjoyed stepping out of my comfort zone and learning a different area of law. I have also enjoyed getting to know the Property Litigation team.

Have you encountered any challenges?

Getting through to the Court enquiries line and getting an actual update!

What advice would you give new applicants?

Be open-minded to the different areas the firm can offer and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

What are the key benefits of doing a trainee scheme?

The Training Contract gives you the opportunity to experience four different areas of law as well as working side-by-side and learning from a variety of different lawyers.

Describe your time so far in three words

Inspiring, fast-paced and educational.