And they make for rather grim reading.  The overall pass percentage was 53%, not so far off the average for the LPC but the pass rate for white candidates was 65% and for BAME candidates 44%. How can that possibly have happened?

Well the signs were all there in the pilot exams where there was a similar attainment gap based on ethnicity and the SRA has appointed the University of Exeter to do some research to try to get to the bottom of the problem. It’s true also that there is an ethnicity gap in relation to success on the LPC but the SQE was meant to level things up an improve diversity. Plainly it’s not working like that yet.

So what should you do if you’re currently trying to decide whether to push on and complete the LPC while you still can, or have a bash at the SQE? The first question is do you have a choice? The answer is yes if you started studying a qualifying Law degree or entered into a fixed contract to study for it by 21st September 2021, or if you started the GDL or entered into a fixed contract to study for it by 31st August 2021. If this doesn’t apply to you then you’ll have to do the SQE if you want to be a solicitor.

But, back to the choice. Well, if you get a training contract many law firms are going to take the choice our of your hands (particularly if they have offered to pay for your professional studies). Many will tell you which route to go for. If you haven’t yet got that elusive training contract what should you do?

I’d start with thinking what you are like with exams. Are you basically fine with all forms of assessment or are you a panicker? If you panic, do you find that once a longer written exam starts you can settle down and get on with it? Do you think that might be easier than Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) where you have to keep up a spanking pace of opening and looking at new questions? You might want to think about your powers of memory and recall. Are you going to be fine with remembering the breadth of law you’ll need for the one off test of the SQE or will you find it easier to do the LPC with its staggered exams and open book policy?  If you still have a choice do what’s best for you.

What about Qualifying Work Experience? Isn’t that easier to get if you go the SQE route? Well yes, you can pick it up in a wider range of situations but don’t forget that you can qualify under the LPC route without ever getting a training contract. There is a mechanism to apply to the SRA for recognition that your work experience covers the required areas and is sufficient depth to satisfy the needs of the old route. You’ll have to document it and it is very likely to take you longer than 2 years, but the option is there.

There’s really lots to consider. Think about yourself and get careers advice and make sure you’re making the right decision for you.