When we published our preview of the Northern Pupillage Fair, we highlighted the growing interest in careers at the Bar and the expectation that this year’s event could be one of the biggest yet. We’re delighted to say it more than lived up to expectations!
The 2026 Northern Pupillage Fair was the largest and most successful event to date, attracting a record number of aspiring barristers, chambers, legal organisations and professionals from across the country. From the moment the doors opened, there was a real buzz around the venue, with attendees making the most of every opportunity to learn more about life at the Bar and the increasingly competitive pupillage process.
One of the most striking aspects of this year’s fair was the sheer level of engagement.
The exhibition area was packed throughout the day, with chambers and organisations meeting hundreds of students and aspiring advocates. Attendees came prepared with thoughtful questions about pupillage applications, advocacy experience, mini-pupillages and life in practice, creating exactly the sort of meaningful conversations that make events like this so valuable.
Alongside the exhibition stands, the fair featured an excellent programme of talks and panel discussions. Speakers shared practical advice, personal experiences and invaluable insights into the realities of building a career at the Bar.
The enthusiasm shown by attendees was matched only by the generosity of those giving their time and expertise. Events such as these remind us just how supportive the legal profession can be when it comes to helping the next generation take their first steps.
The Open Forum was proud to be part of this record-breaking event. Over the course of the day, we had the pleasure of speaking with students, graduates, aspiring barristers and legal professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds. We discussed advocacy, mooting, employability, legal training, networking and the many different pathways into the profession.
One of the most rewarding aspects of attending events like the Northern Pupillage Fair is seeing first-hand the determination and talent of those hoping to join the Bar. The quality of conversations we had throughout the day was truly impressive, and we were delighted to meet so many people who are committed to developing their skills and pursuing a career in advocacy.
Congratulations to Our Prize Winners
To celebrate the occasion, The Open Forum ran two special giveaways.
The first prize was a 12-month Legal Skills Academy membership, providing a year of access to practical legal skills training, resources and development opportunities.
The second prize was a free entry into any Open Forum Speed Mooting competition, giving one aspiring advocate the opportunity to gain valuable advocacy experience and put their skills to the test.
Congratulations to both winners. We look forward to seeing you make the most of these opportunities.
Most importantly, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who came over to the Open Forum stand. Whether you stopped for a quick chat, asked questions about our events, enquired about the Legal Skills Academy, discussed mooting opportunities or simply introduced yourself, we genuinely appreciated every conversation.
A special thank you must also go to the organisers, chambers, exhibitors, volunteers and speakers whose hard work made the fair such a resounding success.
If this year’s record attendance is any indication, interest in the Bar is continuing to grow, and the future of the profession looks incredibly bright.
We left the event inspired by the talent we met and encouraged by the passion shown by so many aspiring barristers.
Author: Joseph Stewart-Doyle
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