Members of 1 Crown Office Row have been volunteering their time to participate in Inner Temple’s Schools Day events. These events, run in collaboration with the Sutton Trust and other organisations, aim to challenge stereotypes about the profession and provide information about the journey to the Bar. The sessions are open to motivated students aged 16-18, from backgrounds currently underrepresented at the Bar.

On 26th March, Michael Deacon participated in a panel session, speaking about his pathway to the Bar and giving insight into the life of a barrister. while Angus McCullough QC and Caroline Cross led workshops developing the pupils’ legal analysis and advocacy skills – and giving them a chance to try on a wig and gown!

On 10th April, Lizanne Gumbel QC and Sarabjit Singh QC participated in the lunchtime panel, sharing their own stories and giving tips to those thinking of a career at the Bar. Rajkiran Barhey led a practical workshop, encouraging students to debate legal topics and try out a plea in mitigation.

Schools Days are organised by Inner Temple as part of their Becoming a Barrister initiative, which aims to encourage more diverse applicants to the Bar. Feedback from the sessions has been overwhelmingly positive:

  • ‘I felt like I wasn’t able to become a barrister and like it wasn’t for me. But I love debating and the seminar has really inspired me and made me realise that this is what I want to pursue.’
  • ‘This day was really fun and informative. I learned so much.’
  • ‘At first I felt intimidated, but everyone was friendly and approachable and I feel reassured now.’
  • ‘Being the first person in my family to think about university and there being no traces of law in my family, I was afraid of not fitting in. However, this seminar was extremely informative and I feel really reassured’
  • ‘Today made everything seem less daunting’
  • ‘I feel a lot more confident now’
  • ‘It has inspired me to aim really high’

 

1COR wholeheartedly support encouraging access to the Bar and enjoy taking part in outreach events.

We also offer an assessed mini-pupillage scheme, aimed at widening participation (details here).

For further information on our outreach activities, please contact Jo Moore, Head of Outreach.