A training contract has historically been the final step in qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. However, with the introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), the traditional route has evolved, offering aspiring solicitors more flexibility in gaining qualifying work experience (QWE). This guide will explain the current state of training contracts, alternative routes to qualification, and what trainees can expect during this crucial period of legal training.
What Is a Training Contract?
A training contract is a two-year period of supervised, practical legal training within a law firm, in-house legal department, or an alternative legal service provider. It enables future solicitors to gain hands-on experience in different areas of law, develop essential legal skills, and meet the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) requirements for qualification.
Traditionally, a training contract was required after completing a law degree (or a conversion course for non-law graduates) and the Legal Practice Course (LPC). However, with the introduction of the SQE, aspiring solicitors can now complete their two years of qualifying work experience (QWE) in a more flexible way.
Training Contract vs. Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
With the implementation of the SQE, a training contract is no longer the only way to qualify. Instead, candidates can complete two years of QWE in up to four different legal environments, which may include:
- Paralegal work
- Volunteering at a law clinic
- Working in a law firm or in-house legal department
- A traditional training contract
This shift allows for greater flexibility and means that those unable to secure a formal training contract can still qualify as solicitors by accumulating relevant legal experience.
Eligibility and Application Process
For Law Graduates
If you are studying law at university, you can start applying for training contracts as early as your penultimate year. Many firms recruit two years in advance, so early applications are encouraged. A strong academic record (typically a 2:1 or higher) and relevant extracurricular activities, such as mooting, debating, or legal work experience, will strengthen your application.
For Non-Law Graduates
If you studied a non-law degree, you will need to complete a law conversion course. Under the old system, this was the Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL), followed by the LPC. Under the new SQE system, non-law graduates can complete an SQE preparation course before sitting the SQE assessments and gaining their QWE.
What Do Trainee Solicitors Do?
During a training contract, trainees rotate through different departments (known as “seats”) to gain experience in multiple practice areas. Typical tasks include:
- Legal research
- Drafting contracts and legal documents
- Attending client meetings
- Assisting with litigation and dispute resolution
- Due diligence for corporate transactions
- Preparing court bundles and liaising with counsel
Some firms offer structured training contracts with four six-month seats, while others provide six three-month seats, allowing for exposure to a wider range of legal work.
Secondments During a Training Contract
Some firms offer secondments, where trainees spend a portion of their training contract working in-house at a client’s legal department or an overseas office. Secondments provide valuable insights into how businesses operate and help develop commercial awareness—an essential skill for solicitors.
Law Firm Seat Rotations
The SRA requires trainees to gain experience in at least three different areas of law. Many firms offer core seats such as:
- Commercial Litigation
- Corporate Law
- Banking & Finance
- Employment Law
- Real Estate
- Intellectual Property & Technology Law
Trainees often express preferences for certain seats, but placement is subject to availability and business needs.
Professional Skills Course (PSC)
During a training contract, trainees must complete the Professional Skills Course (PSC), which covers:
- Financial and business skills
- Advocacy and communication
- Client care and professional standards
Additional elective modules allow trainees to tailor their learning to their chosen specialism.
The SQE and How It Affects Training Contracts
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is now the main route to qualification, replacing the LPC. The SQE consists of two stages:
- SQE1: Tests legal knowledge and application
- SQE2: Assesses practical legal skills (e.g., advocacy, drafting, legal writing)
Under the SQE, a formal training contract is no longer mandatory. Instead, candidates must complete two years of QWE, which can be gained in various settings, including paralegal roles, volunteering, or working in a law clinic.
Key Differences Between LPC & SQE Routes
| LPC Route | SQE Route | |
|---|---|---|
| Course | LPC | SQE1 & SQE2 |
| Work Experience | Training Contract (2 years) | Qualifying Work Experience (2 years, flexible) |
| Cost | £12,000-£17,000 | £4,000-£6,000 (excluding prep courses) |
| Exam Structure | Course-based assessment | Centralised exams |
Final Steps to Becoming a Solicitor
After completing the training contract or two years of QWE, candidates must:
- Pass the SQE (if applicable)
- Meet the SRA’s character and suitability requirements
- Apply for admission to the roll of solicitors
Things to Know
Training contracts remain a key route to qualification, but the introduction of the SQE has broadened the options available to aspiring solicitors. Whether securing a traditional training contract or gaining QWE through alternative routes, candidates should focus on acquiring diverse legal experience and building essential skills to thrive in the profession.
