Many employed Bar organisations are unaware that they can offer barrister training. There is a misconception that pupillage must be completed within chambers.
Pupil Supervisors in the employed Bar
Organisations within the employed Bar must ensure that they are able to meet the requirements for supervising pupils, as set out in Part 4B of the Bar Qualification Manual. supervisors must normally be practising barristers. We understand that not all law firms and legal practices have in-house counsel. If that’s the case for your organisation, but you are interested in training pupils, please do contact us to discuss your options.
Pupil Supervisors in the employed Bar are not limited to taking one pupil at a time. We can allow greater flexibility and bespoke supervision arrangements, subject to the authorisation process.
The application form
The application form and associated questions assess whether an organisation can deliver a training programme which meets:
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The four principles (Flexibility, Accessibility, Affordability and High Standards) of the Authorisation Framework and
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Outcomes for each component of Bar training, as found in the Curriculum and Assessment Strategy (pages 25 to 34 relate to work-based learning).
As such, the form is comprehensive and sections can be completed in isolation, allowing applicants to save their answers without completing the whole questionnaire in one ‘sitting’. Ensure that your answers demonstrate how you intend to meet the criteria and what documentation/toolkit you will use.
You can upload relevant documents to support your application
Download guidance for prospective pupillage providers
If the assessing officer needs further information or clarification, they will contact you directly.
Other factors which may impact on a decision
As a regulator, we have a duty to protect public interests and to consider any information which may pose a risk to the public. It is essential, therefore, that training providers can deliver pupillage to the required standard and that newly qualified barristers are competent to enter practice. During the assessment, we may become aware of historic disciplinary matters and need to discuss this with you before taking a decision.
If you wish to raise any concerns you have about your suitability to provide pupillage do contact us before applying.
