Education & Training
The Circuit undertakes education and training for all members, from pupils through to silks.
Co-Heads of Education & Training
We were delighted jointly to inherit the role of Director of Education and Training from Michelle Heeley KC when she stepped up to be Leader. The Midland Circuit has always produced great advocates and continues to do so. It is a great privilege to be asked to oversee the education of our pupils and new practitioners. We recognise the challenges that the modern Bar faces and are keen to help equip our junior practitioners to meet those challenges and thrive in practice.
Pupils attend a residential course where they are trained by silks and circuit judges in all aspects of advocacy, from opening speeches and cross examination to making applications in the High Court. All pupils must pass this course before undertaking their second six. Circuit follows up this training with further courses regarding ethics and practice management.
Circuit then trains new practitioners. All advocates must attend this residential course within three years of completing pupillage. The course is designed to build upon the skills already learned and ensure that members are developing as advocates. The course offers different training elements in crime, civil and family depending on each member’s specialism. As well as offering residential courses the Circuit offers lectures throughout the year aimed at assisting members in all areas of practice in staying up-to-date with developments in the law.
Enhanced training for established practitioners has included the Vulnerable Witness Training Course.
Upcoming Education and Training
Sat
16
Nov
New Practitioner Advocacy Training Weekend
9:00 - 5:00
We are running a New Practitioner Advocacy Training on Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th November 2024
• Saturday 16th November: 9am registration. 5pm End time with dinner at 6pm.
• Sunday 17th November: 9am registration. 4pm End
• Scarman Conference Centre, Warwick University CV4 7SH
• The Bar Council allow the following CPD points for the WHOLE weekend: / Trainees: 12 CPD points (i.e. 9 hours for the advocacy and 3 hours of preparation) / Trainers: 12 CPD points / Witnesses: 2 CPD points