Pupillage v. Training Contract: Key Differences

Pupillages and training contracts are similar concepts but apply to different career paths. If you're confused about the difference, read on for our guide to the two different types of law career experience, and which one you need to apply for.

What is a pupillage?

Following successful completion of a Barrister Training Course (BTC), a pupillage is the final step towards becoming a barrister. Like an apprenticeship, you will be given practical training under the supervision of a barrister. A pupillage usually lasts 12 months, split into two six-month periods known as 'sixes.'

First six

The first six comprises the non-practising stage, where pupils shadow a barrister for six months, or two barristers for two three-month periods. Pupils will accompany barristers to court, consultations, and conferences, as well as assisting barristers with their papers.

Other work during this period includes research, drafting opinions and arguments – some of which will be assessed. Pupils will also work for other members of chambers, and perform specific tasks including 'devilling', where they prepare opinions for barristers to use as their own. Formal training in advice and advocacy is also included.

Second six

The second six is the practising stage, where pupils obtain a provisional practising certificate, allowing them to provide legal services to the public under the supervision of their supervisor(s). Depending on the chambers, pupils may also appear in court during this stage, and advocacy opportunities at the criminal bar will increase. Those in commercial sets will focus more on written opinions, pleadings, and other administrative work.

What is a mini pupillage?

A mini pupillage is a short period of work experience in a set of chambers, BSB authorised body, or another type of Authorised Education and Training Organisation (AETO). Designed to provide insight into working life at the bar, students often make contacts during their mini pupillage who can assist their career progression and help them find full pupillage opportunities.

What is a training contract?

A training contract is where trainee solicitors put into practice the skills they've learned while studying towards becoming a solicitor. Also known as a period of recognised training, a training contract consists of two years' full-time study under a supervisor who assigns the student tasks and answers their questions. Some firms also offer part-time training contracts which take longer to complete.

What are training contract seats?

Students undertake several 'seats', which are generally six-month periods in four different departments, although some firms allow specification in a particular department. The recent increase in secondments, which is where you spend one seat with one of your firm’s clients, enables students to network and build confidence by handling their own projects.

Training contract modules

To complete a training contract, students must pass the compulsory 12-day Professional Skills Course, which is comprised of three core modules: 

• Financial and business skills

• Advocacy and communication skills

• Client care and professional standards

Students are also required to do a total of twenty-four hours of elective training, twelve of which must be delivered on a face-to-face basis.

Applying to training contracts

Currently, the most common route to qualification as a solicitor requires students to complete a Qualifying Law Degree (QLD), such as the LLB, or a non-law degree and law conversion course like the Law Conversion Course (PGDL).

Students must then complete the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and undertake a two-year period of recognised training (more commonly known as a training contract) with a law firm. During the training contract, you must attend the Professional Skills Course (PSC) and pass a final assessment as part of that course. In September 2021, however, the SRA will introduce the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), which will change the route to qualification.

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)

Under the new system, trainee solicitors will still need to complete two years of qualifying work experience (seats), but it will no longer be restricted to a traditional training contract. Therefore, students will be able to complete work experience in different legal roles, such as a paralegal or volunteering with the Citizen's Advice Bureau. For instance, a student could work as a paralegal for eighteen months and undertake pro bono work for the remaining six months.  

Notwithstanding the SQE, there will be a long transition period for students who have already started a Law Conversion Course (PGDL), Legal Practice Course (LPC), or traditional training contract. This will give students until 2032 to complete their training via the traditional route.