I have just finished the GDL after a non-law degree in business studies at a top 10 university. I have a place on the LPC starting in September, but I have no training contract and am considering taking a year out to improve my CV before making applications to some of the large city firms.

I have a high 2:1 but unfortunately poor A-levels (BBD). I have managed to get quite a lot of legal work experience so far but no vacation schemes at top firms. I am also captain of a sports team and do some voluntary work.

I am really keen to work in corporate law and don't mind taking a year or two out to improve my chances. How much more do I need to do to counter my poor A-levels? Will big firms even consider me at all?