Alumni

Eleanor Irons

Career Path: Barrister, Dere Street Chambers
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

After completing the GDL and before embarking on the BPTC I worked as a Paralegal and volunteered at the Citizens Advice. After completing the BPTC I worked as a Legal Assistant at a Local Authority and then became a County Court Advocate across the North East. I gained Pupillage at Zenith Chambers and completed my specialist Family Law pupillage in September 2019.

What are you doing now?

I am now a tenant at Dere Street Barristers, specialising in all aspects of Family Law.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I am from Newcastle and wanted to come back home to study and to save on living costs! Northumbria was extremely competitive for fees and I knew a number of previous students who had had a great experience at Northumbria.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

I absolutely loved my time studying at Northumbria; it was very forward thinking in its approach to learning, the tutors were friendly and a number went above and beyond to help not only academically but also in pursuit of Pupillage!

How connected was your course with industry?

On the BPTC all of our lecturers and tutors were practising Barristers or had previously worked as Barristers. A civil litigation tutor was also a District Judge! I had great practice pupillage interviews with members of local chambers organised by a tutor. I was also able to be involved in the Student Law Office which was an amazing opportunity. I had my own clients and advised them on different areas of Family Law.

What was the best thing about your course?

The tutors!

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

I was in a very supportive environment, with amazing learning facilities which meant I was able to achieve a high grade on my course.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

If you want to be at a university which will provide every possible opportunity and support you in achieving your career goals both during and after you finish your course then Northumbria is for you!