How to apply

Applications to Hardwicke are not processed through the Pupillage Portal.  Instead, applications for pupillage must be made on Hardwicke’s own pupillage application form. The application form for pupillages commencing 2011 will be available for you to download here soon. 

As part of our on-going commitment to the pupillage process, we are updating our policy documents to reflect current best practice. They will be available for you to view here soon.

The closing date for applications is in line with the Pupillage Portal timetable and is usually around 1st May in the year before pupillage. In 2010, applications will be due by 11:00 on 27 April 2010.

We are looking for candidates of the highest calibre who will go on to become successful barristers. Academic achievement forms a significant part of our considerations but is not the only criteria. We have designed our selection process, especially our application form, to enable us to test and take into account a wide range of skills and attributes. Questions are designed to allow us to assess analytical skills as well as personality and communication skills. 

There are three stages to the selection process:

1. The first stage is the application form. Once the application deadline has passed, each application form is reviewed by at least two members of chambers using standard criteria.  Having collated those marks, the Pupillage Committee will invite candidates for interview. We usually invite around 40 candidates for first round interview.

2. First round interviews usually last about 30 minutes and take place on weekday evenings in June/ early July.  Interviews take place before a panel of three or more members of chambers. Applicants are asked to arrive a short time before their interview slot so that they can consider some legal problems which will form part of their interview. We usually invite no more than 12 candidates for second round interview.

3. Second round interviews tend to last no more than 45 minutes and the interview panel will consist of up to seven members of the Pupillage Committee.  These interviews are likely to be held during weekday working hours in July.  As with the first interview, applicants will be asked to arrive early so that they can be given some questions.  Additionally when we invite candidates to second round interview, we will send a problem question in advance so that applicants can bring written answers with them to the interview.

Offers are then made to successful candidates in accordance with the timetable set down by the Pupillage Portal.