What does it take to prepare properly for SQE1 – and how does The College of Legal Practice support students along the way? We spoke to Steve Johnson, barrister and SQE1 Module Leader, about how our course equips aspiring solicitors with the legal knowledge, exam skills and mindset to succeed.
What's your background
I've had the privilege of being a practicing barrister for 25 years, based in Manchester. Initially, I worked as a common law barrister, which meant I handled a wide range of legal disciplines. Over time, I specialized in crime, and by the end of my practice, I was handling the most serious and complex criminal cases, both prosecuting and defending. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm proud of the experience I've gained.
What does our SQE1 prep course offer students?
Well, I'd say it's a comprehensive programme designed to get you ready for the SQE1 assessment. We've got three main things that we focus on.
First, we introduce you to the 13 academic subjects that form the basis of the assessment papers. As I always say, "the idea of the course is to give you as much preparation as we possibly can for the SQE1 assessment." It's a lot to take in, but our materials are designed to be precise and laser-focused, so you get exactly what you need to know.
Next, we help you embed that knowledge through activities like drag-and-drop and flashcards. It's all about testing your ability to recall the information and feel secure with the material.
Finally, and I think this is key, we teach you to think like a lawyer. We're not just about academic knowledge - we're about applying what you've learned to real-life factual situations. That's what lawyers do, after all! As I put it, "we teach you to think like a lawyer... by helping you to apply the legal knowledge that you have learned... to factual circumstances."
How do you learn on the SQE1 prep course?
In terms of learning methodology, we've got a three-part approach. First, you acquire knowledge through our manuals, videos, and podcasts. Our manuals are "very precise, very laser-focused, and contain only that which you need to know for the SQE1 assessment."
Then, you embed that knowledge through activities. And finally, you apply what you've learned through multiple-choice questions with factual scenarios. These questions are designed to reflect the types of questions you'll face in the actual assessment.
How does the course help you prepare for the exam experience?
To help you prepare for the exams, we've got 10 progress tests that simulate the actual SQE1 assessment, a final summative assessment of 90 MCQs and four revision papers each of 90 MCQs. These tests are designed to build up your stamina and get you comfortable with the format and timing of the real thing. As I say, "by the end of the course, you'll be absolutely ready to take these exams."
What do you think students value most about our SQE1 prep course?
I think what students value most about our course is the flexibility. We've got a blended learning approach, which means you get a combination of guided independent study and face-to-face virtual opportunities. You're in control of your learning, and you've got support from subject matter experts and personal supervisors every step of the way.
In addition to this, students have access to a personal supervisor who can provide support and guidance throughout the course. This means you're never alone and can get help when you need it most.
It's not just about the academics and making sure you know the legal knowledge - it's about feeling supported and confident as you work through the course. And that's what we aim to deliver.
What are some of the common issues that students talk to their supervisors about?
Understanding the nature of the assessment is something that comes up a lot, and catching up when they've fallen behind. Yes, time management is a big one - students are looking for advice on how to balance their time effectively and make the most of the course materials.
The MCQS style assessment questions can also be tricky, especially as they are single best answer questions. Students need help analysing factual scenarios and evaluating potential answers. And when students fall behind, they need guidance on how to catch up without falling further behind.
What are your top tips for SQE1?
If I had to give you some top tips for SQE1 preparation, I'd say:
- Don't underestimate the difficulty of the assessments. They're tough, with a vast number of questions to answer in a short amount of time. The pass rate is about 50%, so you need to properly prepare
- Don't even think about attempting the assessments without going on a preparation course. There's an awful lot to learn, study, and technique to develop
- Don't panic and don't feel overwhelmed. Everything is possible and doable if you prepare properly and stay focused
Learn more about our SQE1 prep course