The purpose of the awards is to encourage able students from disadvantaged and/or underrepresented backgrounds and interested in a becoming a barrister, to make a more informed choice about a career at the Bar.

Law student, Maddy Lusted was successful in securing the sought-after awards and she caught up with us recently to let us know how she feels this award may impact her future prospects and career development.

“Initially I was very surprised because I was completely unsure as to how the interview had gone. I don't consider myself to be 'naturally' good at interviews and being placed on the spot is always challenging. That said, I felt that I had given it my best, and it's always encouraging to receive confirmation that you're doing well and that your efforts will be rewarded. I'm very excited to have received the award now. I am immensely looking forward to the experience itself, but it's also a source of pride that, despite coming from a background in which the Bar is very much a lofty aspiration rather than an expectation, I have the potential to succeed.

I think the practical experience the Award offers will be invaluable. Firstly, obtaining marshalling experience prior to the BPTC can be difficult as, unless you have the personal contact details of a judge, you usually must write to various courts asking about opportunities, which often results in no response. The Award not only provides this experience but provides it for an entire week, which is very unusual. The opportunity to spend time in Chambers, whilst easier to obtain, is also an amazing opportunity, again for the length of time you are given. The length of the Award means you have a hugely beneficial chance to make contacts and to receive feedback on whether practitioners think you'd be suitable for the Bar. The Award will therefore give my interest in the Bar a great deal of credibility; I'll be able to cite it as evidence that I've undergone a competitive selection process and have gained important insight into the profession.

I would just add that I'd highly encourage anyone who meets the criteria for the Award to apply, as it is an unmissable opportunity. Often the first hurdle to success is not counting yourself out when opportunities arise!”

The Law School congratulates Maddy on receiving this fantastic opportunity. We hope fellow eligible students feel inspired by Maddy to apply for the award next academic year.