The Legal Lounge: Tips and Tricks on Pupillage Applications with incoming Pupil, Victoria Ludwig

New Year can only mean one thing for an aspiring barrister... it is the season for pupillage applications! We are very excited to start the year with a conversation with Victoria, an incoming Pupil at Spire Barristers and current BPC student at City St George's University of London.

In this blog, Victoria shares her secrets on everything applications and interviews. Think of it as your insider guide from someone who remembers the "why did I write that" moments.

So grab a cup of tea, settle in and discover the do's, the don'ts and the "trust me, you'll thank yourself later" moments.

So Victoria, what would you like to tell our readers about your experience?

Applying for pupillage can feel overwhelming, particularly given the competitive nature of the Bar. Throughout my own journey, I learned a number of practical strategies that helped me approach the process with clarity, confidence, and purpose. I want to share ten top tips that I gathered during my pupillage applications.

1. Build and Categorise Your Chambers List Early

One of the first steps I took was to create a detailed list of Chambers I was interested in. I logged into the Pupillage Gateway and carefully read each advert, taking notes on geographical location, the areas of law each set specialised in, and the application questions they ask. I then curated a list of 10–15 sets that aligned with my interests and ranked them in order of priority.

Building your list early allows you to plan your applications strategically, giving you time to tailor each submission and setting your future self up for success.

2. Research Deeply

It’s unfortunately not enough to rely on the information on just a Chambers website. I went beyond the surface to look at pupil and junior tenant profiles, attend open evenings and webinars, follow Chambers on LinkedIn, and read their recent cases.

Understanding the ethos of a set, the type of work they do, and their expectations of pupils can make a significant difference when tailoring your application and interview preparation. Thorough research demonstrates genuine interest and commitment to each Chambers.

3. Write with Structure and Brevity

Every application answer is a form of mini-advocacy. I found the three-point rule valuable:

1. Context – Briefly explain the role or situation.

2. Contribution – Describe your specific actions or involvement.

3. Outcome / Lesson Learned – Conclude with what you achieved or learnt.

   
   

Structured answers are so much easier for readers to follow, and they ensure your points are concise and impactful. Always pay attention to word limits, as clarity and precision are highly valued.

4. Answer Authentically

Authenticity is key. Every sentence you write should reflect your personal experience and perspective. Please avoid generic phrases or statements that could be copied by anyone else.

Chambers want to understand you – your motivations, your values, and what you will contribute as a future barrister. Authenticity truly conveys confidence and self-awareness which are vital to your performance.

5. Reflect on Your Experiences

It’s not enough to simply list experiences such as mini-pupillages or moots. Always ask yourself: “What did I gain from this experience?”

Many applicants can state that they completed a mini-pupillage, but not everyone can articulate how it shaped their skills, understanding, or approach to advocacy. Reflection helps you highlight the transferable skills and insights that are relevant to pupillage.

6. Highlight Your Non-Legal Experience

Chambers truly value well-rounded candidates. Non-legal roles, such as hospitality, retail, or volunteering, can demonstrate your skills of resilience, time management, and professionalism.

For example, working in a high-pressure service environment shows your ability to perform under pressure – a skill that translates directly to meeting deadlines and handling clients in legal practice.

7. Proofread Obsessively!

Your application is the first piece of advocacy that Chambers see. Errors can affect credibility, so it’s essential to proofread carefully.

I found it helpful to read my answers aloud, print them off and then proofread with a pen. Do whatever works for you, but make sure every submission is polished and professional.

8. Understand Pupillage Gateway Mechanics

Drafting applications directly in the Pupillage Gateway can be risky. I always wrote my answers in Word first, saving drafts constantly. This allowed me to review, edit, and refine my responses without the pressure of an online form.

Understanding the mechanics of the Gateway, including formatting, word limits, and submission deadlines, is crucial to avoid technical errors that could undermine an otherwise strong application.

9. Rely on Your Support Networks

Don’t underestimate the value of mentorship and peer support. I benefitted greatly from guidance through my Inn of Court, Pupillage Advice Services, Bar Council webinars, and mini-pupillage contacts.

Ask mentors or trusted peers to review your applications and conduct mock interviews. As much feedback as possible can help you refine both written and oral presentations.

10. Prioritise Self-Care

Finally, remember that applying for pupillage is a marathon, not a sprint. Please schedule breaks, maintain hobbies, and take care of your mental and physical health.

Burnout is a real risk during the application season. Balance will help you think more clearly, write more effectively, and approach interviews with confidence.

And finally, what does "Justice" mean to you?

Justice, to me, is the fair and impartial upholding of rights and accountability, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and equality under the law.