To those who have recently completed their SQE1 examinations, congratulations on making it through! The journey to becoming a solicitor is a challenging one, and sitting for the FLK1 and FLK2 exams is a significant milestone. At Freedom Law Clinic, our student cohort, who enrolled last year, has just tackled these assessments. Here, we share some immediate insights and advice based on their experiences.

Key Takeaways from SQE1

1. Psychological Challenges of the Exam

The SQE1 exam format can play tricks on your mind. With its ‘choose the best answer’ structure, even the most confident candidates might find themselves second-guessing their knowledge. While you might recall legal principles accurately, applying them correctly under pressure is the real test.

2. Managing Timing Effectively

Time management remains a critical hurdle. During our revision sessions, we emphasise timed practice exams, ensuring students allocate the right amount of time to each question. Building this skill through repeated drills is essential for navigating the intense time constraints of the real exam.

3. Revision vs. Practical Application

Memorising principles is only part of the preparation. Concepts you’ve applied in real-world scenarios are retained much better than those learned by rote. This is why integrating practical experiences into your studies can make a significant difference.

4. Leveraging Broader Legal Knowledge

Having hands-on experience or a wider understanding of the legal system often proves invaluable. Many questions in SQE1 require you to draw connections between different areas of law, which becomes easier with practice and exposure.

Preparing for the SQE1: Top Tips

1. Prioritise Practice Under Exam Conditions

Simulating exam conditions is key. Allocate specific blocks of time to practise questions, gradually reducing the time per question as you improve. This helps build your stamina and accuracy under pressure.

2. Focus on Practical Scenarios

Whenever possible, relate your studies to real-life applications. At Freedom Law Clinic, we combine SQE preparation with qualifying work experience, allowing you to gain practical experience while you learn.

3. Collaborate and Discuss

Form study groups or attend workshops where you can discuss challenging topics. Explaining concepts to peers can reinforce your own understanding.

4. Regularly Review Feedback

Use past feedback or mock exam results to identify weak areas. Focus on these areas during your revision to build confidence.

Annual Review of the SQE

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is subject to ongoing review to ensure its relevance and fairness. Key objectives of the annual review include:

• Updating the FLK to reflect changes in law and practice.
• Providing clarification based on stakeholder feedback.

How to Submit Feedback

If you have suggestions or feedback on the Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK), you are encouraged to share them. Please email enquiries@sqe.sra.org.uk with the subject header “SQE FLK Review” by 5 PM on 28 February 2025. Be sure to specify:

• Which FLK your feedback relates to (SQE1 FLK1, SQE1 FLK2, or SQE2 FLK).
• The details of your feedback.

Feedback will be reviewed by Kaplan and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Any changes to the FLK will be communicated by April 2025 and implemented for exams occurring after 1 September 2025.

Why Taking the SQE1 is a Transformative Experience

Beyond the challenges, preparing for and completing the SQE1 is an invaluable experience. It equips you with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in your legal career. The journey tests not just your legal understanding but also your resilience and adaptability.

At Freedom Law Clinic, we’re proud to support aspiring solicitors with comprehensive preparation courses tailored to the demands of the SQE. By combining SQE preparation with qualifying work experience, we ensure you’re gaining practical legal skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

Ready to take the next step? Enrol in our SQE1 Preparation Course today and join a network of successful legal professionals.

For more information, contact us or visit our website or message us on WhatsApp.