Readership

Readership opportunities

11 St James Hall endeavours to offer two readership positions each year, one in the May intake and one in the September intake.

Accommodation

11 St James Hall offers readers’ accommodation for the first 12 months of their practice (ie, during the readership year). Subject to the availability of accommodation, it may also be possible to remain on the floor for a further period of time after the initial 12 months.

The clerk can provide further information about the accommodation and other relevant practical matters.

Tutoring

11 St James Hall takes an active interest in the development of its readers’ practices at the Bar. Readers are required to have one of the barristers on the floor as one of their two tutors. We also generally recommend that a reader choose someone on a different floor as their second reader to increase their exposure to other barristers and other floors, thus obtaining broader experience. Our clerk is able to provide the names of suitable members available to act as tutors.

Applications

Applications for readership are typically submitted at least 18 months in advance of the applicant’s proposed commencement date at the Bar (and often earlier). Applications should include a curriculum vitae, an academic transcript as well as a covering letter. This should be sent to the clerk. We encourage prospective readers to make contact with the clerk for an informal discussion in advance of submitting an application for readership.