The path to becoming a barrister is one of rigorous study, intensive training and significant financial commitment. Peter Hale’s journey exemplifies the dedication required to achieve this goal. Now a barrister at 12 King’s Bench Walk, Peter reflects on his academic and professional journey, as well as the vital role The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) played in his success.
Roots and Education
Peter was born in London, before moving to the East Midlands at the age of 11. He attended school in Oakham and later studied at King Edward VII Sixth Form in Melton Mowbray. It was here that Peter’s aspirations began to take shape, ultimately leading him to pursue a Law degree at the University of Exeter.
Driven to deepen his understanding of law on an international scale, Peter continued his education by completing a Master’s in European Law at the University of Rennes in Brittany, France.
The Bar Professional Training Course
The next step on Peter’s journey was the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) at City Law School, University of London – a mandatory qualification for those aspiring to become barristers.
“The BPTC is essential for fulfilling the vocational stage of training,” Peter explains. “It provides a foundation in procedural law and equips aspiring barristers with skills in advocacy, negotiation, drafting, and research.”
Successfully completing the BPTC enabled Peter to progress to the pupillage stage of training and, ultimately, qualify as a barrister.
“Government support isn’t available for courses like the BPTC, so without STWLC’s financial assistance, it’s difficult to see how I could have achieved my career goals”
Finding Support Through STWLC
Like many postgraduate students, Peter faced significant financial challenges when it came to funding his studies. While exploring his options, he discovered STWLC, an organisation offering interest-free loans to residents of Leicestershire and Rutland pursuing educational or business opportunities.
“When I was researching ways to fund my postgraduate studies, I came across STWLC online,” Peter recalls. “It was one of the most accessible charities for residents of Leicestershire and Rutland.”
The Role of STWLC in Peter’s Journey
STWLC proved to be a lifeline for Peter, enabling him to pursue his ambitions without the financial barriers that might have otherwise held him back.
“Government support isn’t available for courses like the BPTC, so without STWLC’s financial assistance, it’s difficult to see how I could have achieved my career goals,” he says. “Beyond the funding, the charity provided encouragement and reassurance throughout my studies.”
Peter also appreciated the clarity and fairness of the Charity’s repayment terms.
“The application process was well-managed and the interest-free scheduled repayments meant that I have always known how much I would need to repay at which stages. I would highly recommend the Charity to anyone considering further education and needing financial support.”
A Career Realised
For Peter, the support of STWLC wasn’t just financial – it was foundational to his success. And for those following in his footsteps, his advice is clear: don’t hesitate to seek out the resources and support that can help make your goals a reality.
For more information about STWLC’s interest-free education loans, which are available up to £10,000, interest-free for nine years, please click here