Interns gain insight at the High Court and Court of Appeal
Court of Appeal Civil DivisionCourt of Appeal Criminal DivisionDiversity InformationHigh CourtNews
Thirteen aspiring barristers from underrepresented backgrounds took part in an intensive, five-day paid internship at High Court and Court of Appeal, as part of the Bridging the Bar cohort of 2025. The initiative, run in partnership between the Judicial Office and the charity ‘Bridging the Bar’, aims to support talented future barristers from groups statistically underrepresented at the Bar – such as disability, ethnic background, socio-economic background, education or sexuality.
Watch interns Mali, Bella, Hannah and Amber talk about their experience on the scheme:
Each year, up to 18 interns have the chance to experience life inside either the High Court or the Court of Appeal. Over the course of the week participants shadow Judicial Assistants, interact with judges, attend court, and receive valuable guidance on presenting themselves before a panel of judges. The experience is designed to enhance the interns’ legal skills and professional confidence, equipping them with the knowledge and connections needed to secure pupillage which is the final stage before qualifying as a barrister.
A highlight of the week for many interns was the opportunity to present to High Court and Court of Appeal judges on a legal topic of personal interest or to share their own journeys towards becoming barristers. This exercise was designed to help participants develop their authentic voice, boost their confidence in addressing senior members of the judiciary, and spark discussion about the importance of diversity and inclusion at the Bar and beyond. The topics chosen by interns were wide ranging and included, civil disobedience, diversity and cultural understanding, AI generated images and recordings, sexual assault, and reflections on their personal journeys.
Judges generously gave their time during the week. They were impressed by the presentations, which sparked valuable discussion and feedback.
Lord Justice Nugee said: “We had the pleasure of hearing five very different presentations, each one most impressive for both the thought that had gone into it and they way it was delivered.”
Lady Justice Laing said: “The presentations I saw gave me a good insight into the great talent of the people who took part, and into the obstacles which they have confronted and overcome in the course of their careers so far.”
Mr Justice Dexter Dias said: “Judges will inevitably ask difficult questions, but this can lead to brilliant answers.”
The internship week concluded with a practical workshop delivered by Judicial Assistants. The session centred on developing application and interview examples, aligned with the competencies required for Judicial Assistant positions, and practicing analysing and answering questions on a court of appeal decision. The workshop offered interns valuable guidance as they advance in their legal careers.
Bridging the Bar aims to support aspiring barristers from a range of statistically underrepresented groups at the Bar. For more information, visit the Bridging the Bar website.