Pupillage

As one of the most successful in-house barristers’ teams in the UK, and the first of its kind to be recognised as an approved pupillage training provider by the BSB in 2010, Browne Jacobson have a proven track record of producing and retaining excellent barristers.

When does pupillage start?

We offer 24-month funded pupillages (subject to any successful pupillage reduction waiver in the second six period) across our regional offices. The pupil will be allocated a pupil supervisor who is responsible for the pupil’s overall education and training.

Am I eligible for pupillage?

As a leading social mobility employer, ranked first for the fourth year running in the Social Mobility Foundation’s Social Mobility Employer Index, we are committed to providing opportunities for all.

There is no minimum academic grade requirement to apply for a pupillage, but you can find out if pupillage at Browne Jacobson is for you by:

Reading our pupillage policy.
Watching our online pupillage open evening on-demand.
Attending our our free virtual work experience programme.

Those who wish to apply for pupillage are requested to complete an online application form.

Funding for pupillage

All pupillages are funded (salaried) and are offered on a fixed-term contract basis. We will also cover the cost of compulsory pupillage courses. Find out more in our pupillage policy.

We also offer a full range of flexible benefits.

How do I apply for a pupillage?

Our selection process is fair and transparent aligned with Bar Standards Board recommendations.

All vacancies for pupillage are advertised on various platforms, including the Pupillage Gateway to ensure wide visibility and equal opportunity.

Applications for 2025 pupillage have closed, and 2026 applications are to be announced.

If you have any queries regarding your 2025 application, please contact the Emerging Talent Team.

What does pupillage involve?

Our pupillage programme is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required for a successful legal career. Under the expert guidance of a dedicated pupil supervisor, you will gain the essential experience and training needed to excel at the Bar.

All pupillages offered by us are with a view to permanent employment as a qualified barrister within the firm at the end of the pupillage, subject to individual performance and business need.

Aspiring barristers can get a glimpse into the life of a lawyer with our virtual work experience programme. The free programme enables delegates to step into the shoes of our barrister team and complete tasks that replicate the specific type of work it does on a daily basis. You can also watch our on-demand pupillage open evening to learn about life as a pupil at Browne Jacobson.

Barristers at Browne Jacobson can expect access to high profile and challenging work at an early stage of their career. Our court-based team appear before a range of jurisdictions, including the High Court, Upper Tier Tribunal and county courts, specialising in a diverse range of practice areas including:

Professional discipline,
Coroner’s inquests,
Court of Protection,
Education,
Civil,
Employment.

Nationally reported cases

We are instructed to prosecute on behalf of national regulators including the Teaching Regulation Agency. We receive briefs to conduct high-profile and lengthy inquests for health organisations and public bodies, often before juries.

We have represented our clients in national public inquiries including:

the Grenfell Tower fire,
the Manchester Arena tragedy,
(in the recent past) Hillsborough.

We currently have five regulated Pupil Supervisors, and 13 employed barristers, as well as a number of assistant advocates who support you in case handling allowing the barristers to lead on court work.

The barristers team is based nationally in a number of the firms offices across the country.

As part of the pupillage, national travel may be required, including to our offices. All travel expenses are met by the firm.

A week in the life as a Pupil Barrister

Amalea Bourne, Pupil-Barrister

"I hope this blog provides insights into the employed Bar and the fantastic career opportunities it offers, whilst also having a supportive team of barristers around you."

Find out more

Pupillage open evening

On-demand webinar

"Thinking of a career at the employed bar? Watch our on-demand pupillage open evening to learn about life as a pupil at Browne Jacobson."

Pupillage open evening

Breaking through barriers to reach the bar

Kiera Riddy, Barrister (Associate)

"I knew I wanted to do it, and there would be no stopping me."

Find out more

Raising the Bar with Browne Jacobson

Sherelle Appleby, Pupil-Barrister

"I would always advocate for the Bar – I love it! If you are someone who enjoys public speaking – not always an easy thing to do – and you enjoy thinking on your feet, go for the Bar! It’s hard work, as is the solicitor route, but being in court is exciting."

Find out more