Mini Pupillages and Vacation Schemes

At some stage in your degree, you will hear about mini-pupillages and vacation schemes. These placements are designed to give students a first-hand look at the legal profession and help them decide whether a particular career path is right for them.

A mini pupillage is a short placement, usually lasting a few days, where you shadow a barrister. You might sit in on court hearings, observe client conferences, and watch how cases are prepared.

A vacation scheme is a structured placement with a law firm, often lasting a couple of weeks, where you take part in tasks similar to those given to trainees. Both are valuable ways to experience legal practice beyond the classroom.

The big question is when to apply. Some firms and chambers offer opportunities for first year students, but most expect applications from those in their second or third year. What matters most is awareness. If you know about these schemes early, you can take steps to prepare and make your applications stronger when the time comes.

The value of these placements goes beyond your CV. They give you the chance to see how legal work feels on a day-to-day basis. You may find that the role you thought was perfect does not suit you at all, or that an unexpected area of law sparks your interest.

Do not feel pressured to apply in your first term, but do keep these opportunities in mind as you progress through your degree. When you are ready, you will know what to look for, and you can approach the application process with confidence and focus.