Unlock your judicial ambitions with the CILEX Judicial Academy

As a Lawyer, you’ve already demonstrated your commitment to excellence in the legal profession. Now, take your career to the next level by considering a future in the judiciary. The CILEX Judicial Academy is here to support you on this journey, offering a dedicated pathway to help you navigate the steps towards a successful judicial appointment.

What is the CILEX Judicial Academy and who should apply?

The CILEX Judicial Academy offers a unique opportunity for lawyers to prepare for a judicial career. Our comprehensive programme is designed to prepare you for this next chapter and supports you in gaining the experience and insight required to navigate the application process successfully.

We understand that as a Lawyer, you bring unique skills and perspectives to the table. Through this programme, we provide a structured pathway to support you in achieving your ambitions via a blend of online and in-person learning, mentoring and networking.

What does the programme offer?

The CILEX Judicial Academy provides a comprehensive, structured approach to judicial preparation that fits around your current professional commitments. Here’s how we can help you make a seamless transition to a judicial role:

• Personalised career development: Receiving one-on-one coaching sessions to create a bespoke career plan that aligns with your judicial ambitions. Develop a clear roadmap with SMART goals to guide your progress.
• Expand your professional network: Connect with a community of judicial aspirants and experience CILEX judges. Access exclusive networks and opportunities that can help you gain valuable insights and experience, including non-executive director roles and volunteer positions.
• Build your confidence: Participate in workshops and training sessions focused on overcoming imposter syndrome and master self-advocacy. Develop the skills to present yourself confidently during the judicial application process.
• Gain judicial insight: Learn from current judges and senior legal figures through exclusive interviews and interactive session. Participate in court observations and gain firsthand experience of the judiciary, deepening your understanding of different judicial roles.
• Flexible learning: Our blended approach combines online modules with in-person and virtual forums, allowing you to learn and engage with the programme at your own pace.

What does the programme cover?

You will be given access to a panel of mentors and receive a minimum of 3 structured sessions with an allocated coach, ensuring you are supported throughout your journey.

The programme is structured around four pillars, offering you the chance to:

• Master your mindset: Overcome imposter syndrome and enhance your confidence, through exclusive interviews with leading judicial figures. While also building a compelling personal brand through positive mindset training and self-awareness exercises.
• Build networks and gain experience: Join a supportive online community of peers and CILEX judges and receive guidance on leveraging personal and professional networks. Gain access to job boards featuring non-executive director and volunteer vacancies. 
• Personal development: Benefit from three one-on-one sessions with a career coach, develop a personalised career plan and gain access to a range of exclusive development tools.
• Explore judicial careers: Gain an in-depth understanding of judicial roles, participate in court observation sessions, and receive insights from leading judicial figures.

Is the CILEX Judicial Academy right for you?

If you’re planning to apply for a judicial appointment within the next 3-5 years and are looking to build the experience and connections needed to make a strong application, the CILEX Judicial Academy is the ideal next step. We encourage applications from all Lawyers, Solicitors and Barristers, especially those who may have faced barriers in their career progression or belong to underrepresented groups.

Join the first cohort of the CILEX Judicial Academy

If you’re ready to embark on your journey towards a judicial career, we invite you to be part of the inaugural cohort of the CILEX Judicial Academy

How to join

To be considered for the first cohort, please complete the Expression of interest form. Following this, you will be asked to fill out a Personal Details form to determine eligibility for the programme.

Eligible applicants will be invited to the exclusive launch event on 5 December at the Supreme Court, with guest speaker Lady Chief Justice. This event is an opportunity to learn more about the Academy, connect with existing CILEX judges and meet your fellow cohort members.

Special introductory price

We’re pleased to offer an introductory price of £995 for those joining the first cohort. This investment includes access to the full suite of resources, coaching, networking opportunities and all course materials designed to prepare you for success in the judiciary.

Key dates:

Entrants are now closed for the January 2025 start date. If you would like to be considered for the April 2025 intake, please complete the Expression of interest form.