The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) represents a significant shift in the qualification process for solicitors in England and Wales. Introduced in September 2021, the SQE aims to standardize the assessment of all aspiring solicitors and trainee solicitors, ensuring consistent and high-quality legal services across the jurisdiction. A pivotal component of this new system is the requirement for Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), which provides candidates with practical, hands-on legal experience.
Understanding Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
QWE is a mandatory phase in the SQE pathway, requiring candidates to complete at least two years (or equivalent) of full-time work experience in roles that involve providing legal services. This experience is designed to help candidates develop the competencies outlined in the Statement of Solicitor Competence, ensuring they are well-prepared for legal practice.
Key Features of QWE:
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Duration and Flexibility: Candidates must accumulate at least two years of QWE, which can be completed full-time or part-time (pro-rata). The experience can be gained continuously or split across multiple roles and organizations, offering flexibility to tailor one’s career path.
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Diverse Settings: QWE can be undertaken in various environments, including law firms, in-house legal teams, law clinics, voluntary or charitable organizations, law centres, or as a paralegal. This diversity allows candidates to explore different areas of law and find roles that align with their interests and career goals.
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Global Opportunities: The SRA permits QWE to be completed overseas, provided the work involves delivering legal services and offers opportunities to develop relevant competencies. This global approach acknowledges the interconnected nature of modern legal practice.
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No Specific Order: QWE can be completed before, during, or after attempting the SQE assessments. However, all QWE must be completed before applying for admission to the roll of solicitors.
Confirming and Recording QWE:
Upon completing QWE, candidates must have their experience confirmed by a solicitor qualified in England and Wales or a Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP). This confirmation involves verifying the duration of the experience, ensuring it provided opportunities to develop the necessary competencies, and affirming that no issues arose concerning the candidate’s character and suitability for practice.
While the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) offers a template to record QWE, its use is optional. Candidates should maintain comprehensive records of their experiences, including the nature of the work undertaken and the competencies developed. These records are crucial for both the confirmation process and any future applications or assessments.
Recent Developments and Alternative Routes
In October 2024, Richard Atkinson, the president of the Law Society, highlighted that under the SQE system, a university degree is not a mandatory requirement to become a solicitor. He emphasized that while degree-level education is necessary, it can be achieved through various routes, including apprenticeships that combine practical work experience with academic learning.
This development broadens access to the legal profession, allowing individuals to pursue alternative pathways that align with their personal circumstances and learning preferences. For instance, the apprenticeship program offers a structured blend of work and study, enabling candidates to earn while they learn and gain practical experience simultaneously.
Planning Your QWE Journey
When planning your QWE, consider the following steps:
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Identify Your Interests: Reflect on the areas of law that interest you most. Seek out QWE opportunities that align with these interests to build a fulfilling career.
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Diversify Your Experience: Aim to gain experience across different organizations and legal settings. This diversity can enhance your skill set and make you more adaptable in various legal contexts.
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Maintain Detailed Records: Keep thorough records of your work, including the tasks performed and the competencies developed. This documentation will be invaluable when confirming your QWE and preparing for the SQE assessments.
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Seek Feedback: Regular feedback from supervisors and colleagues can provide insights into your progress and areas for improvement. This feedback is also essential for the confirmation process.
Things to Know
The introduction of the SQE and the associated QWE requirement marks a significant evolution in the journey to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. This system emphasizes practical experience, adaptability, and a broad understanding of legal services. By strategically planning your QWE, embracing diverse opportunities, and maintaining meticulous records, you can navigate this pathway effectively and position yourself for a successful legal career.
