Kennedy was a student at King James from 2012 to 2019. After completing her A’ Levels in Sixth Form, she moved to Leeds to study an Undergraduate Law Degree at the University of Law.

“I met so many new people and thoroughly enjoyed exploring a new city but unfortunately, in March 2020, the pandemic hit and my time at university was put on hold. I returned home for a while, and all of my learning took place remotely. Eventually, I returned to Leeds to be with my friends until lockdown measures were lifted.”

“During my law degree, I volunteered for ‘Witness Support’. As part of this role, I attended York and Leeds Crown Court where I observed a range of criminal cases. This was a huge learning opportunity, and I quickly realised that I had an aptitude for supporting vulnerable individuals who were going through the justice system.”

“After three years, I graduated from university with a First Class Honours Degree in Law, then came the big decision; should I become a solicitor or barrister? This decision was easy for me as I had always wanted to be a barrister. I was accepted onto Northumbria’s Bar Course on a part-time basis and although everybody told me how difficult and competitive this route would be, I didn’t let that stop me. I made it my goal to obtain as much experience as possible whilst completing the Bar Course so I accepted a job as a legal secretary in Durham and also returned to King James as a Mentor. My role was primarily based in Sixth Form, working with students to help them prepare for exams on a 12-month contract, but just as it was coming to an end, I was informed that they were looking for someone to teach Law. I saw this as another challenge and grabbed the opportunity. This role developed my advocacy and ability to work under pressure, both of which are essential skills of a barrister. At this time, I also accepted another job as a Paralegal within a local solicitor’s firm. Juggling two jobs and studying the Bar Course was difficult but nothing a little determination could not solve.”

“I completed the Bar Course with a Distinction and the biggest day of my career finally arrived when I was called to the Bar. This involved travelling to London with my family, wearing my wig and gown, and being formally appointed as a barrister. The hard work did not stop there however; anyone who wishes to practise as a barrister must complete a period of training known as ‘pupillage’, and given the extremely limited number of these available, this is unbelievably competitive. In my first year of applications, I attended some interviews and although I was considered a ‘reserve’ for one pupillage, I wasn’t successful and had to do it all over again the following year. That brings us to 2025. I had significant success with my applications this year and was invited to many interviews, then in May, pupillage offers were made and after three months of hard work and interviews every weekend, I received three offers. This was, without a doubt, the most important day in my career.”

“This month, I am beginning a common law pupillage with Park Square Barristers in Teesside where I will practise both criminal and family law. This is what I have worked for over the last five years and I am beyond excited to get started. As a former student of King James and an ordinary girl from Bishop Auckland, I would encourage anyone with a career goal or aspiration to go for it. If you are willing to put the work in and remain determined, you really can achieve anything!”