4 minute read
Report on the work of the Education Committee
Kim Davies*
The primary objective of the Education Committee is to enhance the professional development of our members through a diverse range of courses and training programs. The Committee helps to equip barristers with the latest legal knowledge, advocacy skills, and best practices.
The committee has three co-chairs: Chris Gudsell KC, Rachael Reed KC, and Nikki Pender, which reflects the volume of work that is undertaken. In addition, there are nine members including: Shane Elliott, Stephanie Grieve KC, Michael Lennard, Stephanie Marsden, Richard McGuire, Kate Mills, Phil Shamy KC, Sarah Wroe, Daisy Williams, and Garry Williams KC.
Syllabus Review
The Committee has recently completed a review of the education syllabus, which addresses core advocacy skills. The programme consists of eight learning modules including:
1. Practice Management, professional Issues and ethics
2. Commencing proceedings
3. Pre-trial/hearing matters
4. Evidence
5. Submissions
6. Handling difficulties at trial/ Traps for new players
7. Appeals
8. Alternative forums and dispute resolution
Online Training
This year, twelve webinars were held, all of which were free for all members. They covered a range of topics, from AI for Barristers to Criminal Disclosure, and from Understanding the Role of the Prosecutor to Bridging the Gap between Written and Oral Submissions. All the webinars are recorded and can be accessed for free any time by members via the NZBA website - just go to On Demand CPD
Practical skills training
The Bar Association runs a practical skills programme called the Mastering Advocacy Programme. It includes a series of workshops and masterclasses which focus on providing those who attend with a safe and collegial environment in which they can practice and hone their advocacy skills.
This year, two one-day masterclasses were conducted in Auckland on criminal oral appellate submissions (June 2024) and civil oral appellate submissions (November 2024). The masterclasses were very well reviewed by both participants and attendees:
"It was encouraging to see how much the participants benefited from the coaching they received from experienced practitioners after their first ‘appearances’. The second presentations were excellent. It was also pleasing to hear from those who attended as observers how much they had learned during the day, assisted by having read the case materials prior to the masterclass." (Faculty member)
“If you ever have the chance to get involved in an NZBA advocacy masterclass, I can't recommend it enough. "The quality of NZBA's training and support of the bar is consistently excellent." (Participant)
“This was an outstanding opportunity. The materials, structure and coaching all contributed to one of the most worthwhile training opportunities of my career. If you are passionate about advocacy, I would highly recommend taking the opportunity to participate in a NZBA masterclass." (Participant)
Thank you
The Committee thanks the judges, counsel, and everyone who contribute to the education programme. These people voluntarily offer their expertise and time, and ensure that we deliver high quality training.
We also thank the committee members and event chairs, who work with us to make these events happen.
If you are interested in becoming involved in our Education Committee’s work, please contact us
Register!
The training programme for 2025 is in progress. Look out for a workshop early next year, and of course the ongoing webinar programme.
We encourage everyone to sign up and make the most of these fantastic opportunities to boost your professional skills!
*Kim Davies is a legal contractor with extensive experience working as a lawyer for the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
Oral Submissions Masterclass - social drinks
