About the Bar – University Events
The Inns of Court College of Advocacy (ICCA), established in 2016 by The Council of the Inns of Court (COIC), is an education and training provider, committed to academic and professional excellence for the Bar. We achieve this by working closely with the Inns and Circuits; we design and deliver bespoke advocacy training courses and guidance for the practising Bar. More recently, in 2020, we launched a new two-part Bar Course, which was generously funded by the four Inns of Court.
The ICCA Bar Course
We are passionate about attracting and engaging with the new generation of Barristers, both those who have already made the decision to pursue a career as a Barrister, and those who are still undecided and would like to learn more.
As an educational provider, we are committed to delivering an affordable and flexible mode of study for the Bar, whilst maintaining our commitment to high standards.
Our pass rates and pupillage rates speak for themselves, and student testimonies give a good insight into the experience of studying at the ICCA – and what makes us stand out.
What is the ICCA offering to do?
We are offering to deliver a short interactive session to your law students covering one of the following topics intertwined with information about the ICCA Bar Course:
Topic A – What does it take to become a barrister?
Gaining and enhancing the key skills required for pupillage and success in practice at the Bar of England & Wales.
- What are the key skills required for success at the Bar?
- Getting to know yourself – imposter syndrome and avoiding the pitfall of perfection
- What is involved in Bar training and how do I apply?
- Helping yourself – how to enhance your Bar CV
- Taking the plunge – pupillage applications & interviews
Topic B – What is effective advocacy?
Pearls, pitfalls and the fundamental techniques of persuasion.
- What is advocacy?
- Engaging the audience – avoiding common pitfalls to ensure effective public speaking.
- Persuasion – avoiding being asked ‘Why?’
- Using caselaw and statutes effectively
- Answering questions
- Effective written arguments
- Controlling your nerves
Over the past year we have visited over 25 universities – some in-person, the majority virtually – and received superb feedback and engagement from those who attended.
Who will deliver the session?
Chris Kessling, Vice-Dean, will deliver all sessions. He was called to the Bar in 1992 and practiced as a criminal barrister for 21 years, specialising in serious criminal offences both for the prosecution and defence.
Chris is passionate about advocacy and delivery of the highest-level Bar training. He joined ICCA in 2019, and regularly engages with students through teaching and outreach activities.
How do I book a session or find out more?
We want to make this easy as possible. If you would like to know more or to book slot, email barcourseoutreach@icca.ac.uk with the following information:
- Your name, university, course programme
- Number of students (the talk is applicable to / expected to attend)
- Preferred date / time – between September to November 2022 inclusive
- Preferred format – virtual or in-person
- Preferred topic (A or B)
Spaces are limited – we will do our best to accommodate your request however please note, slots will be offered first-come, first-served.
Contact us
If you have any question, contact the ICCA Outreach team at barcourseoutreach@icca.ac.uk.
We hope we can work together to inform and inspire your students about a career at the Bar.
