A University of Chichester graduate has become the institution’s first law student to be called to the Bar, just a year after completing her Master of Laws degree.
Amy Gibbons, who originally studied BA (Hons) Creative Writing and English, went on to complete an LLM (Conversion) with Merit at the University before undertaking a Bar Practice Course in Bristol. She was formally called to the Bar by The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple on 23 July 2026.
Now working as a regulatory paralegal in Winchester, Amy is beginning her legal career while continuing to build the experience needed to pursue pupillage and qualify as a practising barrister.
Reflecting on her journey, Amy said: “Alongside my studies, I competed in several mooting competitions, an experience I was first introduced to at the University of Chichester. These opportunities enabled me to refine my ability to construct legal submissions clearly and confidently.
“During my studies at Chichester my lecturers provided valuable opportunities, including court visits, networking with former students and mooting competitions. The law team were always willing to discuss my work and career aspirations, offering guidance and support that helped me shape my career goals.”
Looking ahead, Amy hopes to continue developing her legal expertise while gaining further advocacy experience. She said: “Over the course of this year and into next year, I am keen to continue developing as a paralegal while pursuing additional legal experience through mini-pupillages, court visits and mooting competitions. My ambition is to strengthen my advocacy and case analysis skills ahead of applying for pupillage in the next cycle.”
Amy’s achievement marks an important milestone for the University’s growing law department, which welcomed its first cohort of students in 2019. It also highlights the opportunities available to students pursuing careers in the legal profession. The department was ranked first in the UK for student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2026.
Amy Elkington, Academic Lead for Law at the University of Chichester, said: “We are incredibly proud of Amy and all that she has achieved. Being called to the Bar is a significant accomplishment and a testament to her hard work, determination and talent.
“As one of the first students to progress through our law programmes, Amy’s success demonstrates what can be achieved with dedication and the right support. We look forward to following her career as she continues her journey towards becoming a practising barrister.”
For more information about law courses at the University of Chichester, as well as Clearing spaces that are available, go to: www.chi.ac.uk/law.