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Summer Vacation Programme

We know the importance of maximizing our candidates' exposure to all aspects of our specialised practice and providing them with the appropriate guidance and training to ensure a meaningful articling experience. Vacation Scheme candidates are given the opportunity to work closely with both Associates and Partners, while being given the freedom to act independently.

Overview

Our vacation schemes in both our Johannesburg and Cape Town offices can be flexible with the dates to fit with the term times at your university. The scheme is aimed at penultimate-year and final year law students.

Successful vacationers will be offered the opportunity to apply for our candidate attorney positions. As we know the importance of maximizing our candidates' exposure to all aspects of our specialised practice, we provide them with the appropriate guidance and training to ensure a meaningful experience.

Candidates are given the opportunity to work closely with both associates and partners, while being given the freedom to act independently. A healthy balance is maintained between theoretical and practical tasks.

We hire our Candidate Attorneys through our Vacation Programmes.

Browse our Early Careers opportunities

What to expect

Be immersed in our firm and the work we do from day one
Unrivalled training and support, from fee earners and HR
Experience real work by observing cases, drafting responses, providing advice and preparing research
Get involved in significant deals, meetings and negotiations
See how our lawyers provide a complete legal service to clients in our core practice areas
Attend seminars, networking events and social events with colleagues and clients

What sets our programme apart?

Global perspective with local expertise

You’ll experience the unique blend of South African legal practice within an international firm, preparing you for cross-border work.

Real work, real impact

Unlike schemes that focus on observation, we involve you in meaningful tasks by placing you with a buddy who will assign tasks such as; drafting, research, and client-focused projects.

Structured mentorship

Our program pairs you with experienced lawyers who guide your development and share practical insights.

Inclusive culture

We foster collaboration and diversity, ensuring you feel supported and valued from day one.

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About you

Successful candidates will:

You must be either a penultimate year or final year law student.
70% overall academic average
BA Law, BCom Law, LLB or LLM
Permanent South African Residency or Citizenship

More information

Johannesburg: 19th January 2026 - 23rd January 2026

Cape Town: 26th January 2026 - 2 February 2026

Ensure you submit your curriculum vitae, full academic transcript, ID copy, and matric certificate. Applications that do not comprise of all supporting documentation will be rendered as incomplete.

Applications are currently closed.

Starting your journey as a Candidate Attorney (CA) is an exciting step toward qualifying as an attorney in South Africa. It’s a period of intensive learning, practical exposure, and professional development. At Clyde & Co, our vacation scheme is designed to give you a real insight into this journey, offering hands-on experience in a global law firm environment.

The vacation scheme is more than just a short-term program; it’s a gateway. Many participants progress to articles with us, where they gain exposure to high-value commercial work, litigation, and advisory matters. This experience builds a strong foundation for admission as an attorney and opens doors to a career with international reach.

If your application has been selected, you will be invited to one HR interview to be recruited to our Vacation Scheme.

If participating, you will be invited to an interview with our Partners at the end of your Vacation Scheme to apply for a Candidate Attorney position.

Olwethu

Signed Candidate for 2026

“My experience in the Clyde & Co Vacation Programme was incredibly rewarding. Working closely with my buddy also helped me grow through personalised guidance and feedback. This programme strengthened my confidence, sharpened my communication and research skills, and highlighted the importance of asking questions and managing my time effectively. ”