Chigwell Alumnus and law student Thomas Ebden spent part of his summer holidays shadowing Jenni Dempster KC at the Central Criminal Court- otherwise famously known as the Old Bailey.

Thomas studied A-Levels in Economics, English Literature, and Biology at Chigwell School joining Exeter University to study law in 2021 where he scored highly in Exeter University Law Society’s internal negotiation competition held in November 2022.

During his time at Chigwell School, he was a Harsnett Praefect competing in the Schools Public Speaking competition as well as being a part of the debating society.

He said of the experience: "I connected back to Chigwell School during my holidays back in London and was able to access this amazing work experience opportunity through their networks. Work shadowing a Criminal Defence barrister provided me with hands-on experience, the ability to witness first-hand the work involved in preparing a case and witness superb advocacy all in the prestigious setting of the Old Bailey."