This is the third consecutive year this 10-week programme has been available to students studying towards a diploma in professional legal practice in Scotland.

It aims to encourage people from all backgrounds to consider a career as an advocate, especially those without family or social connections to the legal profession.

The 30 students gained first-hand experience by shadowing a junior advocate – a mini-devilmaster – one day a week.

The scheme commenced with a reception hosted by the Dean of Faculty, Roddy Dunlop KC, and erstwhile Lord President, Lord Carloway.

Thereafter, in addition to shadowing their mini-devilmasters, the mini-devils attended workshops and talks from senior members of the legal profession, including Senators of the College of Justice, KCs, Senior Crown Counsel and the Advocate General for Scotland.

The scheme aims to replicate in bite-size form the training “real” devils receive while qualifying to become advocates.

At the end of the scheme, the mini-devils took part in mock trials, judged by senior members of Faculty. The scheme was co-ordinated by advocates Elisabeth Roxburgh and Dominic Scullion, alongside co-ordinator emeritus Sheriff Craig Findlater.

A survey run amongst the participating students saw all respondents confirming that taking part had increased their interest in calling to the Bar.

“The time I have spent with both Faculty and my mini-devilmaster has provided valuable insight into the work conducted by advocates,” said Finley Crowe from the University of Dundee.

“The skills I have learned and education I have been afforded have further fuelled my aspirations to pursue a career at the Bar. The scheme is utterly worthwhile, and I would urge any of my peers undertaking the DPLP to apply for it.”

Kirstie Ann Grant, a student at the University of Strathclyde, echoed his comments and said: “Being part of this year’s cohort in the scheme has been an absolutely incredible experience.

“I feel fortunate to have participated and would highly recommend it to anyone starting the Diploma in September.

“This scheme introduced me to remarkable individuals with whom I hope to maintain both personal and professional relationships.

“This has been an unforgettable and cherished experience that will stay with me for a lifetime.”

Heather Knox from the University of Edinburgh said: “For the past two months, I have had the opportunity to shadow a practising advocate and receive training to develop my advocacy skills.

“In addition, we have heard from Faculty office bearers, Senators of the College of Justice and other senior figures in the wider legal profession, who provided insight and advice on the realities of legal work.

“This has truly been an incredible experience, and I am so grateful to all involved for being so generous and welcoming.”