Middle Temple has been awarding scholarships on a substantial basis since 1877. Its primary purpose is to ensure that those of real ability (and whom it believes can succeed) are not precluded from coming to the Bar by a lack of financial resources. The principal criteria for awarding scholarships are the quality of the applicant and his/her commitment to the principles of independent practice. All scholarships are awarded on merit. Once identified as a scholar of the Inn, the amount awarded is tailored to ensure that significant assistance is given to those able students most in need.

Middle Temple interviews every single applicant for a scholarship and, uniquely, always takes account of means when assessing the value of any scholarship awarded. The Inn believes that it has a track record of funnelling the money where it is most needed and to people, regardless of their background, who will ultimately be a credit to the profession and the administration of justice.

In 2006, the Inn provided over £1 million in cash, fees and accommodation scholarships. It started an Appeal to maintain and increase the level of funding and number of scholarships awarded, with the initial aim of raising £5 million, with which to fund more & higher value scholarships. Master Phillips, the Lord Chief Justice is the patron of the Appeal. In September 2007, the value of the Fund passed £2,500,000.

Most donors now contribute by way of regular standing order enabling sizable donations to be built up on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. Members or chambers donating over £50,000 can decide to have a named award, of which we already have a number:

www.3vb.com

We are also raising money for a Rose Scholarship, in honour of Master Rose who retired in 2006, and a Jamestown Scholarship in memory of the founding of the Jamestown settlement in 1607. There is also likely to be a new scholarship provided by the Inn to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the granting of the Inn's charter in 1608.