Pupillage

What do we look for in a candidate?

We take on up to 8 twelve month pupillages each year, with a view to taking on all pupils at the culmination of pupillage. We have previously recruited only 3 pupils per year.

We look for candidates with a fine intellect, clarity of thought and expression, a capacity for sustained hard work under pressure, integrity and an ability to achieve. You should be confident and enthusiastic, and possess the ability to relate appropriately to the very widest cross section of society.

We have a minimum requirement of an upper second class degree.

The selection process and how to apply

Exchange Chambers is not a member of the Pupillage Gateway – we manage the application process ourselves. Applications must be made on Chambers’ own application form.

Following consideration of your application, you will be invited to a first round interview. If successful, candidates will be invited to the second round interview shortly afterwards. We aim to make any offer of pupillage as soon as practicable after the decision has been made.

What will I get out of my pupillage?

We believe that our approach to pupillage is unique and we invest a lot of time and money in the process. Our strength in depth means that you will experience a wide variety of work from the outset, and work with barristers who are leaders in their field. Pupils and junior barristers are in court virtually every day. You have the ability to build your own practice and develop your advocacy from an early stage.

Pupils can expect:

• Each pupil is allocated a pupil supervisor, but will also have the opportunity to experience other work outside of their supervisor’s practice
• Attend hearings in court with their pupil supervisor
• Attend conferences with solicitors and lay clients
• Assist their pupil supervisor in the drafting of documents including advices and pleadings, as well as drafting skeleton arguments for hearings
• Receive regular feedback from their pupil supervisor
• Participate in social and charity events

Useful information and contacts

Follow us on twitter @ExcPupillage for regular updates and information.

Click here to read the Legal Cheek review on Exchange Chambers.

For queries and assistance, please get in touch with Chantal Core (Recruitment and Pupillage Manager).

Articles:

• Location, quality of work and the people: Why I chose Exchange by Harriet Lavin (See here)
• Pupillage during a Pandemic by Ben Berkson (See here)
• #BecomingTheBar Campaign: Robert Povall’s story by Robert Povall (See here)

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Exchange Chambers we are committed to promoting equal opportunities for all, including members, pupils, employees and applicants to Chambers. We do not discriminate against anyone on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, gender reassignment, disability, age, religion or belief. See more here.