Applications have opened for the 5th intake of students on the mentoring scheme for underrepresented groups at the Bar.
The scheme aims to encourage undergraduates and postgraduates from groups who are not well represented at the Bar to consider careers as barristers. These underrepresented groups include women, people from minority ethnic backgrounds and those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds.
Successful applicants will be offered:
- between 3 to 5 one-to-one meetings with a mentor
- a workshop on applications for pupillage, and
- at least one social events with mentors and other mentees.
About the mentoring scheme for underrepresented groups at the Bar
The mentoring scheme was set up in 2021 as a partnership between our chambers, the Planning and Environmental Bar Association (PEBA) and 4 other sets: Cornerstone Barristers, Francis Taylor Building, Kings Chambers and Landmark Chambers.
Since then, the scheme has grown to include Falcon Chambers, 39 Essex Chambers, No 5 Chambers and Gatehouse Chambers.
- The scheme will run between November 2025 and June 2026.
- Where possible sessions will take place in person, otherwise they will be held via Teams.
- Areas of law covered by the different sets vary, but include housing law, property law and public/administrative law.
Jared Norman, who coordinates the scheme for Field Court Chambers said,
'We believe that anyone with the requisite ability should have the opportunity to consider becoming a barrister, whatever their background. Feedback from mentees suggests they value the support they receive. In fact, several have now gained pupillage!'
How to apply
If you would like to apply for a place on the scheme, please read the guidelines for applicants then fill in the application form and email your completed application to: mentoring@cornerstonebarristers.com
The deadline for applications is Friday 10 October at 11.59 pm.