We offer mini pupillages to applicants with a genuine interest in pupillage at 8 New Square and that we believe have the potential to be offered a first round interview in their pupillage application. Mini pupillages are for two days (or one if preferred). Applications will be accepted in the below application windows. Applications made outside of the June and November windows will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and in any event may not be possible.
- Applications between the 1st November – 30th November for mini pupillage taking place the following year between 1 February to the 31st July
- Applications between the 1st June – 30th June for mini pupillages taking place that year from 1st October – 31st January
Applications are assessed by reference to selection criteria in accordance with the Bar’s Fair Recruitment Guide and offers will be made to up to 10 applicants in each application window, totalling a maximum of 20 mini pupillages each year. Offers of mini-pupillage may be made at any time after the closing of the above application windows, but chambers will endeavour to give candidates sufficient advance notice to allow time to plan and make travel arrangements.
One of the selection criteria relates to technical or scientific ability. Due to the nature of the work undertaken in chambers we ask that anyone applying for a mini-pupillage is able to demonstrate the ability to understand technical subject matters, either academically (this need not be to degree level) or through other experience. Additionally, we ask that applicants have commenced a law degree or law conversion course before undertaking a mini pupillage, as we feel you will gain more from the experience having had some legal education. Please therefore time your application accordingly.
The application form is available here, please review it and send the completed form to Harri Gibson at harri.gibson@8newsquare.co.uk. Mini pupillages are not assessed and will not form part of the consideration process for recruitment as a pupil or tenant. Harri Gibson and Philip Taylor oversee the mini-pupillage programme and either can be contacted if you have any questions in relation to mini-pupillage.
Chambers actively seek to promote access to the profession and equal opportunities for those typically underrepresented at the Bar. As a partner of Bridging the Bar we offer a limited number of mini pupillages to those that meet the criteria outlined in Bridging the Bar’s application process and these places are in addition to those detailed above. Assessment is carried out by that organisation and successful candidates are connected with chambers that are of interest to candidates. Additionally, we offer an internship, via the 10,000 Black Interns Programme, details of which can be found here and on the Bar Council website 10,000 Black interns.
Chambers cover travel expenses if required, up to a maximum of £200. Please keep travel receipts and hand them to Harri, Philip or one of the clerking team during your mini-pupillage. In addition, Lincoln’s Inn have a Mini-Pupillage Grant Scheme that assists with other costs associated with undertaking a mini-pupillage. Please see here for more information and to assess if you are eligible.
Use of AI tools
Please note, unless there are exceptional circumstances (in which case, please explain in your covering email), the use of AI tools in making your application is not permitted.