What is the Bar Vocational Course?
The Bar Vocational Course (BVC) is the vocational stage of training that must be completed to become a barrister. It is mainly a practical course, for one year designed to provide training that is specific to the work of a junior barrister (a two-year, part-time course is currently only available at the Inns of Court Law School). Students are encouraged to participate in a range of activities (including mock trials, debating and extra mini-pupillages) that will help them to develop the necessary skills. By focusing over 60% of the course on the acquiring of relevant skills, the BVC helps prepare the Student for the 12-month pupillage (and beyond). Most of the skills are taught through student participation and role-play. One day you might be producing draft recommendations and negotiating solutions to legal problems, and the next working through court procedures. The remaining 40% of the time is spent gaining further legal knowledge. Throughout the course, there is a constant emphasis
