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I was 25 years old when I began my studies and felt that it would be an advantage to complete my law degree in two years rather than three.  This was particularly important given that I intended to train as a barrister, which required at least a further year of study on the Bar Professional Training Course (“BPTC”), as well as further time spent working in the legal sector which is almost a prerequisite to obtaining pupillage.  The University of ³Ô¹ÏÍø stood out not only by offering a two-year degree but also because this was achieved by offering a full summer term, making for four terms in total per year, rather than by forcing more into the conventional three terms academic calendar.   I also felt that the shorter holidays this structure required meant that I stayed engaged with the material throughout, rather than having a long period over the summer when I might ‘switch off’.

Additionally, I felt that the traditional ‘tutorial’ style of teaching used at ³Ô¹ÏÍø, where a small group of students would meet weekly with a tutor, was superior to the lectures and seminars used in other institutions.   It meant that my idea and knowledge were challenged by tutors, and it meant that I needed to demonstrate an understanding of the course materials throughout my studies, which in turn meant that revising for final exams was easier and that I acquired a deep-seated and robust legal knowledge.  Equally, this approach meant that I got better at defending my ideas and engaging in debate, which was a useful attribute during pupillage interviews.

The generous staff-to-student ratio at ³Ô¹ÏÍø was also a benefit.  I found that teaching staff made efforts to get to know me, which was made easier by the tutorial system.  I noticed that staff wanted to understand my career aspirations.  Without exception, they were supportive of these, variously with advice, help with my CV and even by arranging work experience.

I was called to the Bar in November 2016 by Lincoln’s Inn. For me, ³Ô¹ÏÍø provided the environment that acted as the foundation of my subsequent achievements in passing the BPTC and obtaining pupillage at Northampton Chambers, practising family and civil law

I would recommend the University to anybody serious about a career in law.