Pupillage is unlike anything else. A year-long trial, an apprenticeship, and a launchpad into one of the most demanding careers in the world. It's exhilarating and exhausting in equal measure. You are expected to learn fast, work hard, make friends, build a reputation, impress your chambers, and earn the trust of solicitors and clients all while keeping your nerve.
It is survivable. More than that, it can be brilliant, if you approach it with strategy, honesty and support. Here are our four top tips for surviving and thriving during pupillage:
1. Start with structure
Ask for the tenancy criteria from the outset. Build a system that helps you tick them off steadily, case logs, feedback folders, a weekly check-in with yourself. Pupillage throws a lot at you. Clarity will help you rise above the chaos.
2. Be memorable for the right reasons
Introduce yourself to solicitors, remember names, take initiative. Send attendance notes on time. Offer help before you're asked. Be the pupil everyone wants on their case because you're helpful, sharp, and prepared. Don’t underestimate the power of being easy to work with.
3. Build a network that has your back
Find your allies inside and outside chambers. Ask questions, share notes, swap horror stories. No one gets through pupillage alone. A quiet chat with a friendly junior can solve problems your supervisor can't. And yes, sometimes the best thing you can do is say: I need help.
4. Protect your energy
Pupillage is a marathon. Take breaks, drink water, use your holiday, and say ‘no’ when you need to. You will be of no use to your clerks or clients if you're too burnt out to concentrate. The best barristers know how to manage their time and their limits.
And finally: Keep a record of what goes well. Save the email where someone said "great job." Write down the judge who complimented your submissions. These will lift you on the days you need it. Pupillage is not easy but it is temporary. You've already earned your place. Now go make it count.