Dere Street’s Pupil Deck

We are looking forward to welcoming our 5 new pupils, Samantha Herman, Lydia Gibson, Lidia Beqiraj, Robert White and Amelia Taylor. The pupils will be commencing their pupillages on the 29 of September 2025 and each week, leading up to their start, we shall be introducing each of them individually.

The limelight this week goes to General Common Law Pupil, Amelia Taylor.

Originally from York, I studied law at Newcastle University. During my studies I undertook pro-bono work to offer free legal services to a client in a Fitness to Practice case. I have shadowed barristers in criminal, family and immigration law through mini-pupillages at Dere Street Barristers (York) and other Chambers on the North Eastern Circuit and London. I have also marshalled judges hearing public and private family law proceedings in both Yorkshire and London. 

Volunteering at the Independent Domestic Abuse Service, I have expanded my understanding of challenges faced by vulnerable individuals in the local community, and what services and systems are there to support them. Alongside education, I have worked for a Medical Group meaning I am well-equipped to communicate with clients during difficult times. 

I have recently completed the Bar course in London at the Inns of Court College of Advocacy, finishing in July 2025. I was awarded the joint Lincoln House Chambers Criminal Advocacy Prize for the best combined result in the Criminal Advocacy exams in my cohort. In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors, from riding horses to hiking and running.

Amelia’s pupillage will be under the supervision of Victoria Hajba-Ward.