Xavier Alexis-Greenfield, final-year Law LLB student of the University of Kent’s Law School and local of Walton-on-the-Naze has won the Michael Sherrard Award from The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple; a prestigious award given in recognition of advocacy skills and dedication on the path to becoming a barrister.
The award, provide by donations of senior members of the renowned Inns of Court, supports undergraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds who aspire to a career at the Bar. It includes two funded weeks (£250 per week) of work experience; one week marshalling (shadowing a judge in court) and one week’s experience in Chambers.
Law schools are invited to nominate no more than two candidates who are expected to attain a good upper-second or first-class degree and who also show potential to be a successful advocate through their participation in mooting or debating. Successful candidates must also demonstrate self-confidence, strong communication skills along with motivation and determination for a career at the Bar.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Xavier will have to wait until he can take up his placements but in the meantime has been offered general advice on the next stages of his career and on applying for a Major Scholarship at any of the Inns of Court. Copies of Xavier’s CV will be circulated to all chambers and Judges participating in the scheme and he will also be invited to networking events.
Xavier said: ‘I’m very grateful to have been nominated by my University to take part in this scheme. I’d like to thank Kent Law School staff for being so instrumental in aiding my application. I’m from the small town of Walton-on-the-Naze; and I think winning this is great for letting other students in my area know there are ways for them to get into the legal world.’
Kent Law School Employability and Careers Development Officer Jayne Instone said: ‘Diversity initiatives such as this are so important. Our students need to see that the Bar is a career for all and not just the privileged few. Xavier is a deserving recipient who shows great aptitude for a career at the Bar. I look forward to hearing about his experiences and supporting Xavier as he progresses. I hope this encourages other students to be brave and bold in putting themselves forward for such opportunities.’
