SQE Update – January 2022
In this bulletin find out about the results from the first SQE1 assessment, the SQE evaluation and quality assurance frameworks and how universities and training providers are incorporating the SQE into their courses and training.
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First SQE1 assessment results announced
The results for the first ever Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) assessment are now available for candidates to access, with 53% passing. We have published a range of information to help people understand the results including:
Bookings for the first SQE2 sitting in April will open on 31 January*.
SQE independent reviewer report on first assessment
The first assessment was scrutinised by the SQE’s independent reviewer, Geoff Coombe. His review included observing key parts of planning for the exams, a live sitting, and the processes for determining which candidates should pass, which was completed in early January, concluded that the first assessment went well overall. Commenting on the assessment, Geoff said:
‘Overall, the initial SQE1 exam appears to have successfully delivered fair, reliable and defensible outcomes. At every stage – whether in preparation, delivery or processing the results – there was significant evidence of good practice. From a technical perspective the SQE1 exams appear to deliver an effective assessment.
‘As you would expect with any first assessment, there are some things that could be improved. I will continue to review progress on future assessments, and make sure the high standards of this first exam are maintained.’
Evaluating the SQE
It is essential we evaluate the impact of the SQE and we've published information outlining how we will do this. This includes our evaluation and quality assurance frameworks, as well as timescales. Alongside this we have also published the SQE2 readiness report from our independent reviewer.
New SRA Director of Education recruitment now open
We are recruiting a new Director of Education, following the news that our current Director, Julie Brannan, will be retiring in June.
Julie said: ‘I have loved every minute of working here, being involved in so many fascinating projects, not least turning the SQE from a concept into a reality. My long planned retirement creates a great opportunity for the right candidate to work with an expert team to make a real difference to the legal sector.’
All applications are welcome, with the process open until the 7 February.
SQE2 in Welsh available from April 2022
We’ve published information on the phased approach for SQE2 in Welsh between April 2022 and September 2023. From September 2024 candidates will be able to sit SQE1 in Welsh.
Find out more on the SQE assessment website
#SQEready – what universities and training providers are doing
We’re showcasing how different organisations are incorporating the SQE into their training and recruitment. Previously we featured employers, now you can hear what eight universities and training providers are saying about what they’re doing.
If you are a training provider – or employer – who is interested in getting involved in #SQEready, get in touch.
Get involved
Live webinar
SQE1 - how the first assessment went (YouTube)
When: Tuesday 15 February
More than a thousand candidates sat the first ever Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) assessment last November. Following the publication of their results, we are offering a free webinar to update stakeholders. Join us to find out about:
- how the first SQE1 assessment went
- more details on the results, such as pass marks, how candidates performed and standards setting
- some of the key themes we learnt from the assessment
- contingency planning
- next steps and SQE2.
Who: Benedict Fisher, Director of Communications, SRA (Chair), Julie Brannan, Director of Education and Training, SRA, Yiannis Chrysanthou, Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Kaplan, Geoff Coombe, SQE independent reviewer and Zoe Robinson, Director of Qualifications, Kaplan
*We have updated this date since initial publication.
Other ways to get involved
Join our LinkedIn reference group. It will help you keep up to date with the latest SQE developments and opportunities to get involved in our surveys and events.
If you are thinking about taking the SQE, or know someone who is, please follow Career in Law for the latest information aimed at aspiring solicitors.
If you have any questions, or want more information on how you can get involved, contact us.
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