The Bar Council is launching a new online pupillage application system which will allow chambers to tailor applications for the first time.

The new system, called Pupillage Gateway, will launch next March when it will replace the existing process, called Pupillage Portal, which is run by graduate recruitment agency GTI.

In addition to bringing the pupillage process directly under the remit of the Bar Council, the new portal will allow sets to tailor and customise the application forms to suit their own chambers. There will also be a new online marking system allowing chambers to manage applications entirely online.

Candidates will be able to make a maximum of 12 applications on the portal, with chambers unable to see where else they have applied. Additional features include a facility allowing candidates selected for interview to log in and book times digitally.

Bar Council chairman Michael Todd QC (pictured) said: "The Bar Council has undertaken research to ensure that the Pupillage Gateway delivers what applicants and chambers need.

"We decided to take ownership of the new system to ensure the best possible end-user experience, and because, as the body that represents barristers, we are best placed to understand the needs of applicants and recruiters."

The Bar Council will conduct market research over the next two months with pupillage training organisations and prospective applicants to identify further products and services for the portal. The new system will be built by Jobs Go Public.

The news comes after the Bar started a mini-pupillage scheme earlier this year intended to increase socio-economic diversity.

The Pegasus Access Scheme, launched by Inner Temple, has seen 54 chambers commit to taking on a number of university students from disadvantaged backgrounds for mini-pupillages. These comprise work experience of between two and five days with travel and meal expenses included.