Kenworthy’s Chambers has taken on three pupils! We have caught up with Nick Roxborough and Colette Snape previously, and now it is time to put some questions to our final Pupil: Matthew Todd.

Matthew Todd is being supervised during the first few months of his pupillage by Employment Barrister Bruce Henry.

How have you found the first three months of your pupillage Matthew?

I’ve really been enjoying it! I have observed some Employment Law cases with Bruce Henry and have already learned a lot about the practicalities of preparing a matter for tribunal. It’s been a learning curve, but I have been experiencing something different every day and it has been fantastic. I'm hoping to learn more about different advocacy styles as we go along.

What experience do you gain from pupillage at Kenworthy’s Chambers?

Lots of court work but also experience in the background work that Barristers do. Client conferences, discussions with other counsel, and voluminous paperwork!

What types of cases have you assisted?

I've assisted my Supervisor Bruce Henry with written advice on potential claims. I have completed some work with Richard Lees on a personal injury claim, researching potential awards. Plus, I have had the chance to observe a variety of other case types including credit hire, crime, and family! 

What are the most important things you have learned?

How important it is to be able to tell clients difficult truths so that they are best prepared to make informed decisions about their case. Also, how important it is for Barristers to be able to work with everyone, not just those instructing them, to advance a case and secure a positive outcome. 

What advice would you give to someone in the first three months of their pupillage?

Firstly, don't be afraid to ask questions! When the opportunity arises make sure you discuss what's going on with whomever you are shadowing. You will usually pick up some valuable insight, even from innocuous questions. 

Second, don't be afraid to be wrong! If someone asks you to do something, don't expect to get it the first time. Getting it wrong is an opportunity to improve, and no one expects you to be perfect right away. 

Thanks to Matthew Todd for providing a peak behind the curtain and describing his experience undertaking pupillage at Kenworthy’s Chambers. For further reading, see how Colette Snape Shadowed our Family and Immigration Teams as Part of her Pupillage and Nick Roxborough’s Rewarding Pupillage at Kenworthy’s Chambers.