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Diary of a Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries

Author: Chelsea Brooke-Ward (Employment Barrister)

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"The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" with your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward
Welcome to “The Diary of a Barrister – The Lawyer Diaries”, your weekly dose of candid conversations, career advice, and insider insights on all things law, hosted by Chelsea Brooke-Ward. Chelsea is an award-winning Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, one of the largest sets in the North East, and she’s here to demystify the legal world for those determined to break into it — and thrive.


Each episode, Chelsea shares her journey from a non-traditional, non-legal background to building a successful career at the Bar. Expect raw, honest, and inspiring episodes as she opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and what it really takes to stand out in this competitive profession.


Along the way, Chelsea will be joined by a range of guests — from aspiring barristers and legal professionals to trailblazing role models — offering a 360° view of what life in law looks like, and the many paths to success. You’ll hear stories of setbacks, resilience, and breakthroughs, all packed with practical tips you can use right now.


Whether you’re navigating pupillage applications, chasing scholarships, preparing for interviews, or already working in the legal field and striving to push boundaries — this is the podcast for you. It’s smart, empowering, and unfiltered.


"The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" is your go-to resource for a weekly dose of knowledge, motivation, and practical advice. Whether you're a law student with big dreams , an aspiring lawyer seeking to break barriers, or lawyer wanting to smash glass ceilings this is your podcast,  your trusted companion on this remarkable journey into the legal world.


Subscribe now
and let Chelsea be your mentor in your ears — motivating, informing, and cheering you on every step of the way. Success in law begins with knowledge, and this podcast is your key to unlocking a bright future in the legal field.

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21 Episodes
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Pupillage Interviews

Pupillage Interviews

2026-02-1329:19

The conversation provides valuable insights into the mindset, preparation, and authenticity required for success in pupillage interviews. It emphasises the importance of specificity, alignment with chambers, and the demonstration of core skills. Additionally, it addresses the significance of direction, vision, and understanding chambers culture. The conversation also covers the handling of challenges, dealing with nerves, and building confidence for interviews.TakeawaysMindset is crucial for pupillage interviewsPreparation and authenticity are key to success in pupillage interviewsChapters00:00 Introduction to Pupillage Interviews05:04 Preparation and Authenticity10:10 Demonstrating Resilience and Growth16:20 Identifying Core Skills23:00 Why You Are a Good Fit for Chambers28:17 Advocacy Exercises and Problem Questions33:45 Building Confidence for Interviews
The conversation delves into the reality of pupillage, emphasizing the importance of resilience, reflection, and authenticity in the application process. It highlights the purpose of pupillage as a recruitment exercise and the significance of specific evidence, reflection, and alignment in applications. The reframing of rejections and the development of confidence and resilience are also discussed, emphasizing the learning process of pupillage.TakeawaysPupillage is a recruitment exerciseResilience and reflection are key qualities for success in the barAuthenticity and alignment in applications are crucialChapters00:00 Building Confidence and Resilience
The conversation delves into the third law of pupillage, which is about attraction and how it influences the outcomes of candidates. It explores the importance of presence, confidence, building confidence, clarity, consistency, professionalism, self-perception, resilience, boundaries, generosity, and responsibility in the context of pupillage and the legal profession.TakeawaysAttraction is about how you are perceived, remembered, and trustedConsistency in experience and professionalism are key aspects of attractionChapters00:00 The Third Law of Pupillage: Attraction06:05 Building Confidence11:51 Consistency and Alignment18:05 Resilience and BoundariesSign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilJoin the Legal Circle on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/Follow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/ 
The conversation provides valuable insights into the process of crafting effective pupillage applications. It emphasizes the importance of early preparation, authenticity, and clarity in presenting oneself. Key takeaways include the significance of preparation and the need for authenticity and clarity in application responses.TakeawaysPreparation is keyAuthenticity and clarity are crucialChapters00:00 The Purpose of Pupillage Applications05:23 Crafting Memorable Answers11:27 Avoiding Lazy Research and Generic Answers17:42 Specificity and Authenticity in Skill Claims22:44 The Importance of Proofreading28:17 Weight of Non-Legal Experience and ConfidenceSign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilJoin the Legal Circle on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/Follow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/ 
In this episode of Diary of a Barrister, I, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, dive into the first of the Three Laws of Pupillage: Alignment.This episode is all about cutting through the noise of pupillage applications and interviews to reveal what really makes a candidate stand out. Spoiler: it’s not luck, it’s not rehearsed answers, and it’s not a perfect CV — it’s alignment.We begin with a candid discussion about what alignment truly means: the subtle but powerful connection between your habits, values, and ambitions, and the chambers you want to join. I share personal insights from my own journey, including mistakes I made when I thought “telling my story well” was enough, and the shift that happened when I started living out my values instead of just talking about them.From there, I break down the practical side of alignment:Why chambers care about how your habits reflect their ethosExamples of how to spot whether your life and their values actually alignCommon pitfalls candidates fall into when their words and actions don’t matchHow small, everyday actions (from mooting to volunteering to pro bono work) build credibility long before interview dayWe also explore how alignment isn’t about being someone you’re not — it’s about living authentically and making sure your actions back up your ambitions. This applies not just to pupillage but to life at the Bar more broadly: clients, colleagues, and judges can all spot when you’re genuine versus when you’re performing.Throughout the episode, I offer practical takeaways you can implement immediately. Whether you’re at the application stage, gearing up for interviews, or even just starting your bar course, this conversation will help you reflect on whether your current habits are propelling you toward or away from the pupillage you want.Finally, we wrap up with a challenge: what is one habit you could adopt this week that would better align you with the chambers you admire?✨ Alignment is silent, but magnetic. It attracts opportunity without you even having to ask for it.Join me in this engaging and thought-provoking episode as we uncover how alignment can transform not just your pupillage journey, but your career at the Bar.👉 Continue the conversation inside The Legal Circle on Facebook — a community where aspiring barristers and legal professionals connect, share insights, and support each other’s journey Link Below.Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilJoin the Legal Circle on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/Follow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/Support the show Support the show
We had the pleasure of speaking with Kiyala Matanga, a remarkable individual whose journey from being a refugee to becoming a future trainee solicitor is nothing short of inspirational. As the campus vice president at the University of Law and an SQE student, Kiyala embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that is essential for anyone pursuing a career in law.We kicked off by discussing Kiyala's background and the importance of environment in shaping one's future. She shared how her family instilled in her the belief that limitations are self-imposed, which has fueled her ambition to succeed in the legal field. We explored the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive and ambitious individuals, emphasising the idea that you are often the average of the five people you spend the most time with.Kiyala's insights into networking were particularly enlightening. She recounted her initial experiences in business networking, which helped her develop the confidence to connect with professionals in the legal sector. We discussed the importance of building a strong online presence, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, and how authenticity in one's posts can foster genuine connections. Kiyala shared her journey of enhancing her LinkedIn profile, which ultimately led to fruitful interactions with legal professionals who were eager to help her.Throughout our discussion, we touched on the challenges faced by aspiring lawyers, particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds. Kiyala's perspective on overcoming adversity and the importance of mindset resonated deeply. She highlighted that while there may be societal stereotypes about who can succeed in law, it is crucial to focus on one's own path and not be deterred by external noise.We  delved into the significance of setting clear goals and having a vision for one's career. Kiyala shared her personal experiences of how a lack of clarity in her own path initially led to a longer journey toward becoming a solicitor. However, she emphasised that having a vision can significantly increase one's chances of success, as it provides direction and motivation.You can follow Kiyala on the following links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiyala-matanga-84281b217?originalSubdomain=ukhttps://www.instagram.com/kiyalamatanga/Join the Barristerhood on Facebook to join our monthly lives where you can ask questions in real time.https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/
In this exciting live episode of the "Diary of a Barrister," I, Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, engage in a candid conversation about the realities of pursuing a career in law. This episode is designed to inspire and inform aspiring lawyers and law students, providing them with valuable insights into the journey of becoming a barrister.We kick off the episode with a discussion about the upcoming podcasting plans, including an anticipated collaboration with Ella from Ladies of Law. As I prepare for my closing speech in an ongoing trial, I share the challenges and excitement of being in the courtroom, highlighting the importance of preparation and the unpredictability of legal proceedings.Throughout the episode, I emphasise the significance of networking and building relationships within the legal community. Caitlyn and I discuss the importance of LinkedIn as a tool for professional growth, sharing personal experiences of how we have cultivated our networks and the impact it has had on our careers. We touch on the challenges of applying for pupillage and the necessity of being proactive in preparing applications well in advance.We delve into the often-overlooked aspects of mini-pupillages, discussing what constitutes a good mini-pupil and how to make a lasting impression. I share my own experiences and the lessons learned from various mini-pupillages, stressing the importance of initiative and professionalism in these formative experiences.As we navigate through the complexities of the bar course, I provide tips for success, including the importance of time management, effective note-taking, and treating the bar course as a full-time job. We discuss the emotional resilience required to handle rejection and the necessity of viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth.The episode also features a deep dive into the intricacies of employment law, as I share insights from my current trial, discussing the burden of proof in discrimination and unfair dismissal cases. We explore the nuances of legal arguments and the importance of understanding the law beyond theoretical knowledge.Finally, we wrap up the episode with a light-hearted discussion about the challenges of maintaining a professional appearance and the psychological benefits of dressing for success. I encourage listeners to embrace their individuality while navigating the demanding world of law.Join us for this engaging and informative episode, where we demystify the journey to becoming a barrister and share practical advice for those aspiring to make their mark in the legal profession.Join the Barristerhood on Facebook to join our monthly lives where you can ask questions in real time.https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/Support the show Support the showSupport the show
Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, hosts the podcast "The Diary of a Barrister." She is dedicated to inspiring both professionals and law students, aiming to help lawyers become the best versions of themselves, both professionally and personally. The podcast seeks to demystify the legal world, covering topics from courtroom advocacy to the challenges of building a career at the bar.In a recent episode, Chelsea interviews Panache, a legal assistant who completed the bar in 2021 after initially finishing her exams in 2020. They discuss the pupillage process, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the importance of sharing experiences among aspiring barristers. Panache shares her educational background, having studied NLB Law with Criminology at Keele University and later attending BPP University for her BPTC.Panache reflects on her undergraduate experience, noting that while she wished she had taken a gap year, she found the academic transition manageable. However, she describes the jump from law school to bar school as significant, likening it to a full-time job with a heavy workload. Chelsea and Panache agree that treating bar school like a job, dedicating specific hours to study, is crucial for success.The conversation shifts to the importance of gaining legal experience. Panache emphasizes that any experience is valuable and encourages students to leverage transferable skills from previous jobs. She recounts her own journey of applying for mini-pupillages, noting the difficulty of securing these opportunities and the emotional toll it can take. Despite applying to around ten mini-pupillages, she was only successful in securing two.As they discuss the pupillage application process, Panache shares her strategies for managing applications while working. She highlights the importance of networking and reaching out to legal professionals for guidance, which has helped her gain a better understanding of what chambers look for in applicants.Chelsea and Panache also touch on the need for more mentorship opportunities within the legal profession. Panache suggests that barristers should proactively reach out to students on platforms like LinkedIn to offer mentorship, and she advocates for universities to create more connections between students and practicing barristers.The episode concludes with Chelsea expressing her commitment to helping aspiring barristers navigate the challenges of the profession, emphasizing the importance of support and community in achieving success.Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/Support the show Support the show
Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, hosts the podcast "The Diary of a Barrister." She is dedicated to inspiring both professionals and law students, aiming to help lawyers become the best versions of themselves, both professionally and personally. In a recent episode, Chelsea speaks with Charlotte, a current Bar Practice School student who is also a full-time paralegal in conveyancing. Charlotte shares her experiences of juggling her studies with her demanding job, noting the challenges of transitioning between "solicitor mode" and "barrister mode." Despite the difficulties, she finds the skills she is developing to be highly transferable and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience in her journey.When asked if she would change anything about her current path, Charlotte reflects on her workload and suggests that working part-time instead of full-time might allow her to focus more on her studies. She acknowledges the volume of work required for the bar course and the challenges of fitting in extracurricular activities like mooting and mini-pupillages.Charlotte expresses gratitude for her supportive boss, who has been accommodating of her commitments to the bar course. She describes her workplace as a small, traditional firm where she feels valued and given responsibility, contrasting her experience with that of peers in larger firms who may not receive the same level of flexibility.The conversation shifts to Charlotte's educational background, where she discusses her undergraduate studies at Leeds Beckett University and her current studies at the University of Law. She notes the differences between her law degree, which was heavily theoretical, and the practical focus of the bar course.Charlotte recounts her early interest in becoming a barrister, sparked by a work experience opportunity at Mould Crown Court during her A-levels. However, she admits to feeling unprepared for the journey ahead, lacking guidance on the steps necessary to pursue a career at the bar.As they discuss the challenges of applying for pupillage, Charlotte shares her experiences with rejections and the emotional toll it can take. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and the need for support from the legal community, highlighting the positivity she has encountered at events like the International Women's Day panel.In closing, Charlotte offers advice to others in her position: to ignore naysayers and to believe in their ability to succeed. Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/Support the shoSupport the show
Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, hosts the podcast "Diary of a Barrister." She is dedicated to inspiring both professionals and law students, aiming to help lawyers become the best versions of themselves, both professionally and personally. The podcast seeks to demystify the legal world, covering topics from courtroom advocacy to the challenges of building a career at the bar.In a recent episode, Chelsea and her co-host, Jodie Hill, Managing Partner at Thrive Laws, shared their experiences from a yoga retreat where they focused on self-care and setting boundaries. They discussed the challenges professionals face in switching off from work, especially in high-demand careers like law. Chelsea emphasized her advocacy for mental health and self-care, noting how yoga has played a crucial role in her well-being.During their retreat, they engaged in numerous yoga classes, surf lessons, and spent time in nature, which helped them realize the importance of taking breaks. Jodie, who has ADHD, shared her struggles with switching off and the necessity of saying no to various demands on their time. They both acknowledged that saying no is vital for maintaining personal boundaries and ensuring they can focus on their creative projects, such as the book they are writing together.The duo reflected on the importance of managing expectations and communication with clients and colleagues. Chelsea noted that it took her time to relax during the retreat, highlighting the need for extended periods away from work to recharge and foster creativity. They discussed how busy professionals often feel pressured to respond immediately to messages and emails, which can lead to burnout.Throughout the episode, they shared practical tips for self-care, including the significance of a balanced diet, gratitude practices, and the benefits of disconnecting from technology. They encouraged listeners to identify their stress triggers and the activities that bring them joy, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in managing stress and enhancing productivity.Chelsea and Jodie concluded the episode by discussing the lessons they learned about patience and the value of slowing down. They recognized that taking time to appreciate life and the world around them can lead to greater fulfillment and creativity. They expressed their commitment to sharing more insights on mental health and entrepreneurship in future episodes, inviting listeners to engage and share their own experiences.Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/Support the show Support the show
In this episode of Diary of a Barrister, Lawyer Diaries your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward, delves into a topic that is often shrouded in mystery and concern for aspiring barristers: the financial realities of making a living at the bar. As an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, Chelsea aims to provide insight and clarity on what it truly means to earn a living in this profession, particularly for those considering a career in civil private practice.Chelsea begins by addressing a common question posed by law students and those on work experience: "If you get pupillage, will you be able to afford to live?" This question is crucial, as many junior barristers face financial challenges, especially in the early stages of their careers. Chelsea emphasises that earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as location and practice area, particularly between those who work in legal aid versus private practice.Throughout the episode, Chelsea shares her personal experiences and insights, highlighting that approximately 80% of barristers are self-employed. This status comes with both advantages and disadvantages, including the responsibility of managing one's own finances, tax returns, and expenses. She discusses the importance of budgeting for taxes, the implications of being VAT registered, and the various costs associated with running a practice, such as chambers fees, insurance, and practicing certificates.Chelsea also touches on the unpredictability of income in the barrister profession, explaining how billing does not always equate to immediate payment. She shares her own journey through pupillage, detailing the financial grants available and the transition from shadowing to earning during the second six months. She discusses that her first-year earnings serve as a benchmark, illustrating the potential for growth and the variability of income based on hard work and dedication.Moreover, Chelsea candidly discusses the challenges of self-employment, including the lack of benefits such as sick pay and holiday pay, and the necessity of planning for unexpected events. She stresses the importance of hard work, networking, and providing value to clients as key factors in achieving financial success at the bar.By the end of the episode, hopefully she demystifies (in civil practice) the financial landscape of being a barrister and provides a realistic expectation for those considering this career path. Chelsea encourages listeners to understand that while the journey can be daunting, with determination and effort, it is possible to earn a comfortable living in this prestigious field.Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Diary of a Barrister. If you found this discussion helpful, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to explore the intricacies of a career in law.Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/Support the showSupport the show
In this episode of The Diary of a Barrister, I, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, along with my co-host Brad Graves, dive into the unique pressures and experiences faced by those in the legal profession, particularly during the application process for pupillage. We open the conversation by reflecting on our roles as informal therapists for each other, highlighting the importance of having someone in the same field to vent to about the stresses of law.As we discuss the limbo period between submitting applications and awaiting interview outcomes, we explore the balance between preparation and over-preparation. Chelsea emphasises the importance of engaging in practical experiences, such as work placements or mooting competitions, rather than obsessing over interview techniques. We agree that while it’s essential to prepare, it’s equally important to maintain a sense of enjoyment and not to lose sight of the passion that drives us in our legal careers.We touch on the misconception that candidates need to be the "finished product" before entering the profession. I share my personal struggles with self-doubt and the pressure to prove my worth, while reassuring that the pupillage process is designed to identify potential rather than perfection. We discuss the significance of having a growth mindset and the understanding that learning is a continuous journey in the legal field.The conversation shifts to the importance of mental health and self-care, especially during stressful periods. I candidly share my own experiences with burnout and the necessity of taking time for oneself. We highlight the saying, "you can't pour from an empty cup," and stress that prioritising mental well-being is crucial for long-term success in any career.We reflect on the guilt often associated with taking breaks from work and the importance of separating personal time from professional responsibilities.Join us for this insightful discussion that not only addresses the challenges of pursuing a career in law but also emphasises the importance of mindset, self-care, and the journey of personal growth.Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/ Support the show
Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme:https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupilFollow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/https://www.instagram.com/diaryofapupil?igsh=MXVtbnhmcDcyaHo5Mg==Follow us on Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Twitterhttps://x.com/diaryofa_BarrisFollow us on Threadshttps://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barristerFollow us on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-graves/?originalSubdomain=ukIn this episode of The Diary of a Barrister, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, and Brad Graves, an Aspiring Barrister discuss currently navigating the challenging journey to Pupillage and the application process.We kick off the episode by discussing the intense process of pupillage applications, with Brad sharing his experiences of balancing a full-time job while dedicating his spare time to crafting his applications. He emphasises the importance of setting aside specific times to reflect on feedback and develop his responses, highlighting the struggle many face when trying to articulate their transferable skills and experiences.Chelsea opens up about her personal challenges, including his ADHD, which affects her memory, and how she combats this by maintaining a spreadsheet of  achievements and public speaking engagements. We delve into the common questions that arise in pupillage applications, such as motivations for becoming a barrister and the attributes that make a good barrister, and Brad shares his strategies for preparing for interviews even before receiving offers.As we reflect on Brad's journey over the past three years since he decided on a career in law, he expresses how the experiences he has gained have not only filled his CV but also built his confidence. He articulates a shift in mindset from feeling like he needs to prove himself to recognising his worth and readiness to be a Barrister. This transformation is crucial as he prepares for interviews, viewing them as a two-way process where he can assess whether the chambers are a good fit for him as well.We discuss the importance of self-awareness in this journey, emphasising that aspiring barristers must honestly evaluate their readiness for the role. Brad shares a powerful analogy about a slingshot, illustrating the idea of preparation and readiness before launching into the next phase of his career.The conversation also touches on practical advice for gaining experience, such as seeking out mini-pupillages and the importance of networking. Brad recounts his own experiences of approaching barristers directly and the value of being proactive in seeking opportunities.Towards the end of the episode, we reflect on the qualities that chambers look for in candidates, emphasising that while academic knowledge is important, character traits like determination, motivation, and initiative are what truly set candidates apart. We conclude with a reminder that success in the legal field is not just about what you know, but also about how you apply yourself and the connections you make along the way.Support the show
Welcome to ‘Diary of a Pupil,’ where Chelsea Brooke Ward, a distinguished barrister at Park Square Barristers, engages in illuminating conversations with Celine, a junior criminal barrister from the same esteemed chambers.In this podcast, Celine shares her expertise on the meticulous process of assessing mini Pupillage applications, providing invaluable tips and guidance for aspiring barristers navigating this critical phase of their legal journey. Delving into her own experiences, Celine reflects on the challenges and triumphs encountered during her Pupillage application journey, offering a unique perspective on the demanding path to becoming a barrister.Listeners are invited to gain an exclusive insight into the daily life of a junior barrister, exploring the intricacies of courtroom advocacy, legal strategy, and the professional nuances that define this esteemed profession.‘Diary of a Pupil’ serves as a valuable guide for individuals navigating the intricacies of the legal landscape, providing a nuanced exploration of the legal profession. Whether you’re a law student with aspirations for the bar or simply captivated by the world of law, we invite you to join Chelsea and Celine on an enriching and insightful journey through the episodes.If you don’t follow Chelsea or Celine their social media handles are below:Chelsea:https://uk.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward-232433a3https://uk.linkedin.com/company/legally-bloggedhttps://twitter.com/_legallyblogged?lang=enhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofapupil_barrister/?hl=en-gbCeline:https://twitter.com/CelineKarthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/celine-kart-757960157?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appSupport the show
Welcome to 'Diary of a Pupil,' a podcast hosted by Chelsea Brooke Ward from Park Square Barristers. In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Aimilia Katsoulakis, a recent recipient of a coveted pupillage at Park Square Barristers. Aimilia shares her remarkable journey, delving into the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that led to this prestigious opportunity. From the trials of the application process to the elation of receiving the offer, Aimilia candidly discusses her strategies, challenges, and the relentless determination that propelled her toward this career-defining moment. Join us as Aimilia unveils the invaluable insights and experiences that shaped her path to success, offering inspiration and guidance to aspiring legal minds on their own quest for pupillage.If you want to follow Aimilia her handles are:https://uk.linkedin.com/in/aimilia-katsoulakis-45b556203https://twitter.com/AimiliaKatsoul1https://www.instagram.com/aimiliakatsoulakisx/If you want to follow Chelsea her handles are:https://uk.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward-232433a3https://uk.linkedin.com/company/legally-bloggedhttps://twitter.com/_legallyblogged?lang=enhttps://www.instagram.com/diaryofapupil_barrister/?hl=en-gbSupport the show
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Welcome to Diary of a Pupil, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of securing pupillage, featuring candid conversations and expert insights. Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of the legal profession, offering valuable advice to aspiring barristers, students, and anyone intrigued by the legal field. In this episode we discuss the "Legal Work Experience: Do's and Don'ts," a special episode where we unravel the essential guidelines for making the most of your legal work experience. In this informative session, we'll discuss the key strategies to thrive during mini pupillage, placements, and legal work experience opportunities.Hosts:🎙 Chelsea Brooke Ward - A rising star in the legal world, Chelsea has successfully navigated the competitive landscape of legal work experience becoming a barrister in 2017. Her fresh perspective and recent experiences offer invaluable advice to those beginning their legal careers.🎙 Jodie Hill - Managing Director of Thrive Law an award winning employment firm. A seasoned legal professional with a wealth of experience in the legal field, Jodie is committed to guiding and mentoring the next generation of lawyers.Episode Highlights:🎧 Episode: "Do's and Don'ts of Legal Work Experience" - Jodie and Chelsea share their insights on what to do and what to avoid during your legal work experience. They provide practical tips and real-world examples to help you make the most of your time in a legal setting.Throughout this episode, you'll discover:- The importance of proactive engagement and showing initiative.- Strategies for building professional relationships and networking effectively.- Tips for avoiding common pitfalls that can hinder your progress.- The role of adaptability and open-mindedness in the legal workplace.- How to balance academic commitments and work experience effectively.Whether you're a law student, recent graduate, or a legal professional looking to enhance your career, this episode is your comprehensive guide to ensuring that your legal work experience is a valuable and productive step on your journey to becoming a successful lawyer. Subscribe now to gain the insights shared by our dynamic hosts and boost your legal career.You can follow Jodie and Chelsea on the following:Chelsea https://www.instagram.com/diaryofapupil_barrister/?hl=en-gbhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward-232433a3/?originalSubdomain=ukhttps://twitter.com/_Legallybloggedhttps://www.instagram.com/legally_blogged/?hl=enJodiehttps://www.instagram.com/iamjodiehill/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-hill-lawyer/?originalSubdomain=ukhttps://twitter.com/iamjodiehill?lang=enhttps://www.youtube.com/c/JodieHillhttps://www.tiktok.com/@iamjodiehillSupport the show
Welcome to  Diary of a Pupil the podcast where we dive deep into the world of securing pupillage, featuring candid conversations and expert insights. Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of the legal profession, offering valuable advice to aspiring barristers, students, and anyone intrigued by the legal field.Hosts:🎙 Chelsea - The legal blogger and renowned expert in employment law. She offers invaluable insights and advice for those on the path to securing a pupillage.🎙 Sarah - A determined barrister-in-training who is embarking on her journey to secure pupillage, Sarah offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and aspirations faced by those seeking to enter the legal profession.Support the show
Welcome to the Diary of a Pupil the podcast where we dive deep into the world of securing pupillage, featuring candid conversations and expert insights. Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of the legal profession, offering valuable advice to aspiring barristers, students, and anyone intrigued by the legal field.🎙 Chelsea - Our host, Chelsea is a renowned legal professional and an expert in pupillage selection. She offers invaluable insights and advice for those on the path to securing a pupillage.🎙 Tonicha & Anna - A recent pupillage success story, Tonicha & Anna bring fresh perspectives, having successfully navigated the competitive selection process. They share their first-hand experiences, trials, and triumphs as a pupil.Support the show
The "P" word pupillage

The "P" word pupillage

2023-08-3114:49

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