Learning that evolves with you

At Watershed, we believe that the most fulfilling legal careers are shaped by continual growth, not rigid training schedules or arbitrary learning targets.

Development here does not end with post-qualified experience milestones; it adapts as your career progresses, shaped by the kind of work you do and the people you do it with.

We understand that many senior lawyers arrive tired of tick-box continuing professional development qualifications (PDQ) programmes and uninspiring firm-wide seminars. Our approach is different. We provide meaningful opportunities to learn, refine, and lead, without infantilising experienced professionals or imposing a one-size-fits-all track.

Structured development, when you want it

We offer formal learning when it is relevant, and only when it adds value. This includes:

  • Workshops and roundtables on emerging employment law trends and sector developments.
  • Optional knowledge-sharing sessions, led by colleagues or guest speakers, covering topics from the dynamics of trades unions to cross-border employment issues.
  • Financial support for external training or PDQs, shaped around individual interest or practice area needs.

There is no set curriculum. Instead, we design learning opportunities around you – your ambitions, your strengths, and the future you want to build.

Learning through colleagues, cases, and clients

Much of the best development at Watershed happens informally, through collaboration, casework, and discussion. You will learn by working alongside smart, grounded peers who bring different strengths and sector insights to the table.

  • Regular case reviews and post-matter debriefs help capture lessons, refine strategies, and share insight throughout the team.
  • Informal mentoring flourishes in a culture free from hierarchy or competition.
  • Cross-disciplinary exposure, particularly on projects that originate from our consultancy partner, Collinson Grant, helps lawyers expand their commercial understanding alongside their legal expertise.

You will not just build technical skills. You will develop judgment, strategic thinking, and the confidence to advise at the highest levels.

Knowledge shared, not guarded

At Watershed, there is no gatekeeping. Our lawyers routinely share insights, check drafts, and offer strategic second opinions, without ego. It is a culture built on trust, not competition. Whether you are seeking a sounding board or offering one, knowledge flows openly in both directions.

One solicitor who joined after a decade in private practice described the change this way: “Here, you don’t have to ask permission to learn or to lead. You just start doing better work, with better people, and that’s where the growth happens.”

Progression that reflects your growth

Development here is not abstract, it leads somewhere. Whether that is increased responsibility, a deeper specialism, or formal progression into statutory directorship, we recognise growth by what you do and how you contribute, not how long you have waited.

Read more about career progression

Ready to grow on your terms?

Watershed is where experienced lawyers come to sharpen their edge, not to settle. If you are ready to practise at a higher level, with the support and stretch to keep improving, we would like to hear from you.

Explore all careers at Watershed