Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) replaced the traditional training contract as the work experience requirement.
Requirements
- Duration: At least 2 years full-time (or equivalent part-time)
- Organisations: Up to 4 different organisations
- Confirmation: A solicitor must sign off that you developed the required competencies
What Counts
Work at a law firm, in-house legal team, law centre, Citizens Advice Bureau, paralegal work (if substantive), pro bono work (if supervised by a solicitor).
What Does NOT Count
Purely administrative work, unsupervised work experience, academic study or research for a university.
Practical Tips
- Keep a detailed log of the work you do and competencies you develop.
- Ensure you have a solicitor willing to confirm your QWE before you start.
- Paralegal experience before starting the SQE can count towards your QWE.