Third-seat trainee Helena Macpherson shares her experience of training across all three Russell-Cooke offices and the benefits of moving between them.
As trainees at Russell-Cooke, we complete four seats during our training contract. Rotating through different departments can feel challenging at times, with frequent changes and new environments, but it offers many opportunities for growth and learning.
One of the best ways to expand your internal network and learn from the talented solicitors at Russell-Cooke is by moving around our offices.
I started as a private client trainee in our Bedford Row office in Holborn before moving to our Putney office to join the real estate team for my second seat.
Currently I’m based in the Kingston office as a family trainee, meaning I have had the benefit of experiencing working life in all three offices.
Holborn
Often fondly referred to as having a ‘homely’ feel, our Bedford Row office fosters a close-knit environment where you quickly become part of the Russell-Cooke community.
Right in the heart of the historic legal district of Holborn, it’s hard to beat the location for our litigation trainees. We’re only around the corner from the Royal Courts of Justice, where I have attended a number of hearings as a family trainee. Other nearby legal locations include Inns of Court and the Court of Protection.
What do the trainees think?
In good weather, we have lunch in Gray’s Inn gardens since it's just across the road - it always feels like a luxury break in the middle of the day!
Putney
Our Putney office is vibrant and full of conversation, serving as the hub for most of Russell-Cooke’s practice areas. Every floor is home to different areas of expertise, from charities and not-for-profit, to family and criminal law. We host our monthly trainee meetings in the Putney office, so even if you’re not based in this office, there are plenty of opportunities to get together and catch-up.
What do the trainees think?
The Putney office is great for trainee morale as we all get lunch together every day in the No 1. coffee lounge. It’s lovely to hear about how others’ days are going and ask any questions.
Kingston
Nestled beside the Thames, our Kingston office offers serene views and a welcoming atmosphere. The open-plan layout encourages interaction between colleagues across departments, making it easier to learn from experienced solicitors and build strong professional relationships.
What do the trainees think?
Being right by the river offers a peaceful setting that’s perfect for lunchtime walks or a moment of calm amidst the chaos!
Building relationships across our offices can make you feel more connected to the wider firm. As a full-service firm, this supports our collaborative approach across teams to provide our clients with everything they need under one roof (or three!).
Helena Macpherson is currently a third-seat trainee in the family and children team.
Applications for Russell-Cooke's 2026 spring vacation scheme and 2028 training contract are open from 7 November 2025 to 6 February 2026.
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