Pupillage Vacancy Information
About Authorised and Education Training Organisation
Northampton Chambers has a proud history as the oldest and most established barristers’ chambers in Northampton. We are committed to delivering standards of excellence in both spoken and written advocacy, as well as in outstanding care of both our lay and professional clients. Overseen by Head of Chambers, Ms Maria Savvides, we operate from premises at 10 Spencer Parade in Northampton, and our central location allows us to practise both locally and further afield across the Midlands, London and the South East.
Although we are a relatively small set, we are extremely proud of the close-knit, friendly atmosphere that exists between all those in chambers, including clerks and pupils. Pupils are encouraged to spend time with members of chambers other than their supervisor to enable them to experience different styles of advocacy, and to see how life at the junior end of the Bar differs. We feel that it is important for pupils not only to observe their supervisor, but also to understand the work that they will undertake during their practising period and beyond.
Structure of Pupillage
Northampton Chambers staggers pupillage start dates every 3 months so there is always both non-practising and practising pupils in chambers at any one time. Each pupil also has a junior tenant to act as a “buddy”. We feel that this encourages a positive environment with a number of avenues in case any issues arise, and this also ensures that rather than competing with one another, pupils are using their energies to develop and work collaboratively.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Chambers has a strong record of recruitment across a diverse range of backgrounds and ethnicities. Every application is considered on merit.
Should there be any queries prior to applying for pupillage with us, we encourage applicant’s to contact the clerks on the email address below who can pass the query to the relevant individual.
How to Apply
Applications are to be in the form of a CV and covering letter, sent by email to clerks@northampton-chambers.co.uk In addition, please download our Equality and Diversity form on our website and attach the completed form to your application. Please specify within your covering letter which pupillage dates are being applied for. Please do not send a separate application for each pupillage date.
All associated dates are in line with Pupillage Gateway. The closing date for the application is therefore 10am on Wednesday 7 February 2024. Any applications received after this time cannot be accepted and unfortunately will not be considered.
Interview Dates
Please note that due to our working schedule, interview dates will be at a weekend. If you are unable to make an interview date, we will do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee an alternative. The below dates are provisional.
- First round interview February 2024
- Second round interview March 2024
Offers of pupillage following interviews will be made at 9.30am on Friday 10 May 2024 in line with the timetable. We would appreciate a decision as soon as possible so alternatives can be considered.
PLEASE NOTE THAT NORTHAMPTON CHAMBERS APPLICATIONS ARE NOT ADMINISTERED BY PUPILLAGE GATEWAY.
Applicant Specification
Applicants should be able to demonstrate:
- Interest in Family Law – although prior knowledge and experience is not absolutely necessary, it is encouraged;
- Strong intellectual abilities – we do not limit applications to any particular class of degree as we think it can unfairly exclude individuals, but it should be noted that as a rule of thumb, a 2:1 is required at degree level as a minimum, along with Very Competent on the BPTC;
- Effective communication/advocacy skills – in Family Law, the majority of the role involves advocacy and communication, whether that be in court or directly with clients;
- Good organisational abilities – in order to ensure that you are able to manage your practice effectively, it is important that candidates have the aptitude for information management, prioritisation of work, and are capable of delivering when under pressure;
- Basic level of IT literacy – although training will be given on specific software systems used by courts and chambers, applicants will be required to show a basic level of IT literacy.
