Since 2012, The Inner Temple has been proud to run PASS (The Pegasus Access and Support Scheme) which aims to improve access to the profession and to support high achieving aspiring barristers from under-represented backgrounds by providing experiences and developing skills that will support a career at the Bar.
We arrange a mini-pupillage for each participant with our partner chambers. We are deeply grateful to all of our partner chambers who accommodate our PASS scholars for a mini-pupillage and we always welcome hearing from new chambers who would like to support the scheme.
We asked some of our PASS scholars to provide a few words about their experience on the programme. If your chambers or organisation would like to get involved in PASS, please email outreach@innertemple.org.uk.
Finn
PASS has been an invaluable stepping stone in my journey to the Bar. Principally, the Dinner to the Universities provided a unique opportunity to network with fellow aspiring barristers and established practitioners. This included meeting a King’s Counsel who, over a delightful meal, shared honest insights into balancing family life with a demanding legal career.
Another highlight of the scheme was a one-on-one video call with Her Honour Judge Caroline Wigin, a Judicial Governing Bencher of The Inner Temple. Her feedback on my CV was not only encouraging, but she also provided concrete suggestions for how I could reframe weaker areas. Additionally, Judge Wigin offered invaluable advice on steps I could take to further develop myself in preparation for future pupillage applications, which has given me a clearer path forward.
The virtual skills sessions, focusing on advocacy and interview techniques, were instrumental in my preparation for The Inner Temple’s Bar Course Scholarship interview. I am thrilled to have since been awarded a Major Scholarship and firmly believe that PASS played a crucial role in my success. I look forward to building upon this foundation as I make my first pupillage applications next year.
Simran
I was told about the PASS programme by a friend who was preparing for the Bar Course, and she shared how the programme not only honed her skills but also solidified her decision to apply for a Bar Course Scholarship at The Inner Temple. Inspired by her positive feedback, I applied to be part of the 2023–24 intake and was delighted to be selected from around 200 applicants as one of the 60 participants.
From my very first visit to The Inner Temple, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. This institution is not just about tradition; it’s actively dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the Bar. My journey to the Bar has been unconventional – I transitioned into law post-pandemic, coming from a very different career, which is far from the ‘typical’ Bar candidate profile. The Inner Temple’s supportive environment has made this transition smoother and more welcoming, showing me that my aspirations of becoming a barrister are not just dreams, but achievable goals.
Water Bottles
Our beautiful 500ml (17oz) Inner Temple water bottle is made from 70% recycled materials and high grade steel by Mr Bamboo Cup. It keeps your beverage cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours, and is fully recyclable at the end of its ten year life. A tree is planted for each bottle that is manufactured. It's a perfect gift or accessory for every occasion.
The PASS sessions have been incredibly enriching, enhancing my advocacy skills and providing valuable networking opportunities at events like Dinner to the Universities. These experiences are crucial in a profession where connections and skill go hand in hand.
Additionally, receiving the COMBAR Scholarship through the PASS programme has been transformative. It granted me access to mentorship from a barrister at a leading commercial chambers and a mini-pupillage with a commercial set that is both competitive and highly rewarding. These opportunities have significantly strengthened my future applications and deepened my understanding of a career at the Bar.
I am also grateful that the PASS programme helped me to obtain a Bar Course Scholarship with The Inner Temple and I can now start my Bar studies in September 2024.
To anyone contemplating a future at the Bar, I wholeheartedly recommend applying for the PASS programme. The combination of workshops, mentorship, and real-world experience it offers can truly enhance your prospects of securing a pupillage and successfully entering the legal profession.
