Does anyone on here know if any of the chambers actively recruit BCL students (or Cantab LLM students, for that matter)?

Thanks in advance.

It's well-known that some chambers like the BCL and Oxbridge students generally, but I've not heard about them actively recruiting BCL students. I think it is usually left for the student to approach the chambers. Competition is so tough for the Bar, that chambers do not need to actively take part in the milkrounds etc. (there may be some exceptions).

Bar recruitment is a separate process entirely - see www.pupillages.com for information. All pupillages must be advertised on this website, and while a BCL/LLM (Cantab) looks good, it won't be worth much without a decent mark on your BVC (i.e. Very Competent or above).

No wish to be contrary, but I'm not sure that's right actually. The BCL is VERY highly regarded and every single set of chambers I've done a mini in has recommended me to do it.

As for the BVC, most chambers couldn't care less. The majority of pupillages are awarded, in effect, on a year early basis. i.e. one applies the Feb-Summer of the academic year BEFORE one starts the BVC, finding the results of applications in August at the latest. (there are a few who are done in the Autumn but even these will be before the BVC). So, in fact, the marks on the BVC will only matter to those who were unsuccessful the first time and who will have to wait a year to start their pupillage after the BVC. (with the exception of somne smaller sets or some vacancies becomming available out of the usual run of things).

IN essence, most chambers don't care about the BVC as to where it is or what you get (as long as pass). Obviously the higher the better but a decent mark on the BVC is often meaningless given the availability of pupillages places BEFORE the BVC (unless you intned doing an LLM AFTER the BVC).