Cameron Glynn

What motivated you to pursue postgraduate study?

I studied an undergraduate degree in Theology and Religion at the University of Oxford. During my studies, I realised my interest in law and ambition to become a barrister.

To pursue this path as a non-law student, I needed to undertake two postgraduate degrees: a law conversion programme and a Bar professional training course. I completed both the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and the Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) at City St George's, with a gap in the middle to pursue an LLM.

Why did you choose City St George's?

City St George's stood out as the best GDL provider for aspiring barristers. As well as the academically rigorous nature of the degree, the availability of barrister-focused opportunities (especially mooting and pro bono work) made City St George's an attractive place to undertake the law conversion programme.

Having had such a positive experience at City St George's during the GDL, I knew I wanted to return to complete the BVS course. I also appreciated the prevalence of current and former practitioners teaching the course at City St George's. I valued their insights into the realities of practice at the Bar.

I would also highlight that the University offers discounts to alumni who want to continue studying at City St George's. Having completed City St George's GDL, I could therefore benefit from this discount for the BVS.

How are you funding your studies?

The financial pressure which comes with postgraduate study is typically the major hurdle facing prospective students. I was fortunate to receive funding from my Inn of Court which covered my studies.

The Inns have scholarships available for both the GDL and the BVS. I would encourage anyone pursuing those courses to apply for funding. My top tip is to make sure you check the application deadlines in advance as they are earlier than you might think!

What does a typical week at university look like for you?

BVS classes were scheduled for three/four days a week. The classes lasted around two hours, and we had one or two classes each day we went in. As a practical degree, classes often involved mock-court scenarios (e.g., examination in chief and cross-examination) or acting as counsel before a ‘judge’ (the tutor).

Classes such as Drafting and Legal Opinion Writing also developed our written advocacy in court and client contexts. These practical aspects of the degree were balanced with traditional ‘sit-down’ classes, covering professional ethics and learning the procedure rules in both criminal and civil courts.

Since many students on the BVS are prospective pupillage applicants, extra-curricular legal activities also become almost part of the degree itself. I participated in mooting, mini-pupillages, and pro bono work, to develop my understanding and experience of different aspects of the Bar.

Outside law, I enjoy exercising (boxing and weightlifting in particular) and spending time with friends and family.

What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?

I enjoyed the BVS’s practical nature, emphasising advocacy and developing the skills required in practice. It was amazing to experience in myself and other students the progress made throughout the year. The supportive atmosphere at City St George's was critical in this context, in which everyone was motivated to push themselves and encourage others in turn.

What opportunities and experiences have City St George's offered you so far?

The City Law School is excellent at providing various mooting and pro bono opportunities for students. During my GDL, I participated in City St George's pro bono Employment Law Clinic. My role was client-facing, including interviewing clients and writing up notes for the solicitor(s) on the case. This provided valuable insight into practice and the interaction between solicitors and clients.

During the BVS, I enjoyed developing my mooting experience. I recently won the City St George's Senior Moot, the final of which was judged by practitioners and an Employment Tribunal Judge.

Additionally, with three other City St George's students, I participated in the European Law Moot Court 2024. After winning our Regional Final in Turin, we had the unique opportunity to moot in the Court of Justice of the European Union. Opportunities such as these, to advocate in such prestigious contexts and face questioning from experts, would not have been possible without City St George's network and support.

What are your career plans and how has City St George's prepared you for them?

Next year, I will be working as a Judicial Assistant (JA) in the Court of Appeal. Through the BVS, I have developed an understanding of court procedure and practice which I am excited to build upon. Working as a JA will also provide an insight into effective appellate advocacy and judicial decision-making which I hope will support my career as a barrister.

What advice would you give to someone considering a postgraduate degree?

If your motivation to pursue a postgraduate degree is for a career change, don’t think it’s ever too late! The GDL attracts students of very different ages and experiences. Similarly, the BVS brought together a wide range of individuals, from those who had just completed their law conversion programme to experienced professionals converting to the Bar.

The flexibility offered by many postgraduate degrees (for instance, studying part-time alongside work) encourages this variety of students. There is no ‘correct’ age or background to take this step.