The CMS Academy is the main route to a training contract at CMS. Our next generation vacation scheme offers a unique launch pad for your career in law. You will gain real experience in a working environment and the skills you need to succeed as a trainee at a future-focused firm. You’ll interact with experts ranging from neuroscientists to consultants in artificial intelligence – true specialists who are leaders in their fields. In essence, you will learn the future and the business of law, and work towards securing a training contract with CMS.

The CMS Academy is split into two parts: one week of training on the business of law, and a two-week internship.

You will meet with clients, network with lawyers at every level of the business, work on projects and debate with thought leaders in the legal and industry sectors. All programme participants will be invited to an open day at our London office before the programme begins, so you can find out more about how to best prepare for the CMS Academy. On successful completion of the programme, you may be offered a training contract with us.

This year, we're also offering a Training Contract in Dubai, beginning with the CMS Academy. You'll attend training on the business of law in our London offices, followed by a two-week internship in the UAE. 

Expand your expertise with the CMS Academy.

Do you have what it takes?

We want people who will drive our business forward. You should embrace complex situations, take the initiative and use your common sense to find realistic commercial solutions.

Our assessment process includes an online test. You can take a practice test here.

Transform yourself into someone remarkable.

We look for many qualities including

  • Personal Effectiveness:

    Emotionally savvy and self-assured, you should thrive in complexity and have the initiative to get things done.

  • Professional Communication:

    As a clear and engaging communicator, you should know how to write well, ask useful questions and listen attentively.

  • Drive for Achievement:

    Whether you are adapting to changing circumstances or carrying out a plan that was months in the making, you should know how to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

  • Leading Self & Others:

    A true team player who understands the art of compromise, you should always be willing to lend a hand and share new ideas, and be enthusiastic about building confidence in others.

  • Future-facing Lawyer:

    Ever inquisitive and hungry to learn, you should possess a sharp mind, strong analytical skills and the ability to see both the big picture and the small details.

  • Relationship Building & Commercial Awareness:

    Along with being someone who builds rapport quickly and goes the extra mile to understand clients, you should be passionate about enterprise and able to speculate about future business trends.

Ready to apply?

Applying to the CMS Academy is simple and straightforward. Even better, you can do it right now.

Apply