Students commencing the Bar Course must complete ten Qualifying Sessions in order to be Called to the Bar (please note that the Call to the Bar ceremony itself does not count as a Qualifying Session). Students must attend a minimum of one session under each of the themes outlined below and at least two sessions must be interactive and require preparation in advance (NB: all interactive sessions also require preparation in advance so you only need to attend two of these sessions altogether, not four). Students can contact the Education and Training Department if they have questions about these requirements.
The Inn’s Qualifying Sessions are spread across five themes. The themes are:
The Inn recognises that its student members study the vocational qualification component with providers across England and Wales and therefore provides a wide range of Qualifying Sessions at weekends as well as during the week. The Inn provides the opportunity for Bar Course students at providers outside of London to complete up to five in person Qualifying Sessions locally.
Students who began the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) before 1 June 2020 are subject to transitional provisions set out in the joint Inns Qualification and Educational rules.
Please note, it is a student’s responsibility to ensure that they attend the required number and type of Qualifying Sessions. It will be made as clear as possible to you at the point of booking which Qualifying Sessions count for which themes. All QS are valid for 5 years from date of attendance.
Events will be held in person unless noted otherwise – some in person events may also offer hybrid online streaming, and this will be made clear at point of booking. It is vital to take note of the format of events before you book them, as cancellations can cause logistical issues and prevent other students from attending.