10,000 Black interns programme
What is the 10,000 Black interns programme?
This programme offers Black university students and graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the Bar. Over 6 weeks, interns will be hosted by several chambers and organisation, offering a wide-ranging insight into the profession. All internships are paid at the London Living Wage.
To be eligible you must be: Over 18, Black or of Black heritage (including mixed heritage), and currently studying at a UK university or recently graduated from a UK university within the last 3 years.
What can I expect?
Internships last 6 weeks, running from June to the end of August 2026. As an intern you’ll:
- Take part in advocacy exercises before starting your placement
- Attend court and observe barristers in practice
- Gain exposure to different areas of law and practitioners
- Take part in research, drafting and advocacy exercises
- Have the opportunity to network with members of the Bar
"It's a very unique opportunity to explore the Bar. There is simply no other scheme like this, which not only pays but allows for 6 weeks at a range of different chambers/organisations. I can't recommend it enough, it's already a very competitive space and being able to have this opportunity can only bring clarity into your life."
– past intern
How interns are selected
Applications are made through the 10,000 Interns Foundation under ‘The Bar’ category. The recruitment process will involve three stages:
- Paper sift
- Written test
- Video presentation
The recruitment process is coordinated by the Bar steering group and will assess your:
- Written advocacy
- Oral advocacy
- Motivations for taking part in the programme
For advice, read pupil barrister Corey Boothe’s blog where he shares his advice on the application process, what makes a successful application, and his experience throughout the internship.
Hear from past interns
Read blogs and testimonials from former interns to hear first-hand what the programme is like:
The 10,000 Black Interns (10KBI) Programme: ‘A unique platform to break through barriers’
The 10,000 Interns Foundation provides paid internships for Black students and graduates through the 10,000 Black Interns (10KBI) Programme. The exposure to life at the Bar from an array of perspectives has proven to be invaluable to interns. Here, some of 2023’s interns share their thoughts and reflections on their experiences.
From internship to pupillage: my journey through the 10KBI scheme
Pupil barrister Corey Boothe recounts his experience of the Bar’s first paid internship and how it shaped his career.
If you are a chambers and want to get involved, please visit our page: 10,000 Black interns programme: information for chambers and AETOs
Timetable
Application process
You can apply for internship through 10,000 Interns Foundation.
Submit your application under the “The Bar” workstream by 19 October to be considered for an internship at the Bar.
Applications will be reviewed by our steering groupShortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a written assessment.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a video presentation aimed to assess their oral advocacy.
Offers to successful candidates will be made.
Preparation
Interns will be asked to complete an allocation form to confirm their preferred location of placement and practice areas of interest.
They will be put in touch with their group lead to begin confirming internship dates.
A save the date for the induction day in early June will be sent.
Internship
6-week internships to take place over the summer dates of each internship will be agreed with the intern and their hosts via their group lead.
Closing day
An event to reflect on internships with this year’s cohort and hear from barristers.
