Since its launch in November 2025, the South Eastern Circuit Mentoring Scheme has come to embody, in its truest and most generous form, the spirit of our profession. It reflects not merely a programme, but a living commitment to one another: to guidance, to growth, and to the quiet but enduring strength of a collegiate Bar. I am genuinely delighted by the calibre and generosity of those who have already stepped forward to serve as mentors, forming a distinguished panel available to support tenants at every stage of practice, whether newly established or long seasoned.
Mentoring is offered on a strictly confidential, one to one basis, and with careful thought given to what will most benefit each individual. Those seeking support may choose a mentor within their own discipline, albeit from a different set of chambers, or instead opt for someone from a different field altogether, bringing with them fresh perspective and broader professional insight. Each pairing is made with care, ensuring that those seeking guidance are matched with mentors of appropriate experience, able to assist with matters such as practice development, transitions between chambers or areas of work, the challenges of returning to practice, and the sometimes delicate realities of professional life within chambers.
This scheme is, at its heart, an expression of something far greater. The Bar is, and always has been, a family. Nothing of value is created in isolation, and nothing of worth is given without thought. Our collective memory is long, and it is purposeful. Those who are mentored today will, in due course, be recognised as the mentors of tomorrow. In that sense, participation carries both privilege and quiet responsibility. It is a continuum of generosity which sustains the profession, and one in which every member has a part to play.
We see this same spirit reflected across the wider Bar, not least in the extraordinary dedication of our faculty at Keble each year. The passing on of knowledge, skill, and judgement is undertaken not for reward, but from a shared sense of duty. High Court judges, silks, junior barristers, and professional staff alike give their time freely to support those who follow. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Advanced International Advocacy Course, widely regarded as the finest of its kind in the world.
On that note, I am very pleased to say that bookings for this year's course are now open. There are 25 scholarships available through the Inns and the CBA, five from each, and I would strongly encourage eligible members to apply. If you are over three years post-pupillage and meet the criteria, the process is straightforward: complete the relevant forms, including your chosen scholarship application, and submit them to Aaron. It is, quite simply, first come, first served, and I understand that places are already filling at pace.
If you would like to be mentored, or indeed to offer your time and experience as a mentor, please contact mentoring@southeasterncircuit.com.