Described by the Legal 500 as “a Western Circuit Powerhouse”, St John’s offers the perfect chance to build a stellar career at the Bar while enjoying the great opportunities on offer in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities. We are one of the largest and most prestigious sets in the South West, with over 80 barristers and 9 silks including Chambers UK’s 2019 ‘Chancery Silk of the Year’, Leslie Blohm QC. Chambers UK and the Legal 500 routinely list us as a Top-Tier leading set in all of our major practice areas, describing us as a “go-to” and “must instruct” chambers. We were the Legal 500’s ‘Regional Set of the Year’ in 2018 and we have been shortlisted for that title once again this year by both major directories, further cementing our position as a standout destination for high-quality applicants who want the very best career without compromising on quality of life.

Our successful candidates for pupillage will typically have strong academic credentials, but we have no preference as to whether your undergraduate degree is in law or whether you have since transferred. We look for high-calibre recruits who can demonstrate certain key competencies: the ability to analyse complex information quickly, to present arguments succinctly and persuasively, to communicate effectively with all types of people. We look for people who are determined, resilient and motivated. Experience of public speaking and mooting is desirable but not essential.

The structure of pupillage might change slightly year-on-year, as the threshold requirements are set by reference to the BSB’s Professional Statement and any specialist checklists. You can be sure your pupillage will cover all necessary aspects of your specialist area, while giving you exposure to a broad range of styles and approaches so that you can find your own. We generally expect our pupils to specialise within one practice group. We take on pupils with an eye to tenancy, so our pupils do not compete with each other. Provided that they successfully complete pupillage, they can normally expect to become tenants.

We do not accept applications through the Pupillage Gateway. Application forms are available via the St John’s Chambers website (www.stjohnschambers.co.uk).