Number of places: 90 FT

The BPTC course at Kaplan was first offered to a group of 60 students in September 2010 and in 2011 this was extended to 90 prospective barristers. The school “selects to succeed” and sets the bar high when it comes to entry requirements, pre-empting the BSB's review of aptitude tests by introducing its own entrance exams for its first student cohort. BPTC applicants will need to pass an interview, written exam and advocacy test and demonstrate a commitment to the profession evidenced by previous formal and informal work experience or otherwise. Once in, the professional attitude continues as students are required to wear suits into class and study from practitioners' texts Archbold and The White Book (Civil Procedure).

The course itself mirrors that offered at Nottingham Law School. Class sizes of around 12 for written skills and no more than six students for oral skills are standard. Students can expect to be in class four days a week with Fridays off. BPTC students can select from seven options, subject to demand. We hear that in recent years immigration and advanced criminal practice are less and less popular, with students instead opting for more commercial electives. Those who can't wait to test out their advocacy skills can enter mooting and mock trial competitions where past students have enjoyed success in the international arena. In addition to bragging rights, a 50% scholarship is available for the Master or Mistress of Moots and there are several other advocacy-based scholarships.

The location of the law school building more than makes up for its less than fancy exterior. Surrounded by the history of Southwark Cathedral, the Golden Hinde and Borough Market it's also a stone's throw away from cool bars and fine restaurants; and at the end of the day it's what's on the inside that counts and Kaplan has fresh classrooms, break areas and mock courts. Students searching for a pupillage can seek advice from Kaplan's careers service, which provides mock interviews and application advice. It also invites guest speakers from the Inns of Court and some of the 50 chambers with which it maintains close links to give talks. Students looking to add a bit of shine to their CVs can get involved in one of several pro bono programmes including training as a 'McKenzie friend' and representing individuals in council tax issues at Thames Magistrates' Court; they can also volunteer one or two days a week at the Kaplan Legal Advice Centre.