FAQs – Solicitors Qualifying Exam

Our SQE training programme will take the form of a Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship and allows you to start working and earning at Kennedys immediately after university, while gaining qualifying legal work experience in one of our teams before sitting the SQE1 and SQE2 exams to qualify as a solicitor. 

In this article, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions relating to our SQE programme.

Applications for our 2022 SQE Training Programme are now open - Click here to apply.

For more insight into what a typical day in the life of some of our solicitor apprentices is like, visit our day in the life page.

FAQs

What are the requirements for the SQE training programme?

A law or non-law degree and a law conversion course (GDL/PGDL).

I have already gained work experience from another law firm, can I apply for the SQE training programme?

Yes, you can still apply for the SQE programme, but your previous work experience will not count as qualifying work experience, as you will complete this during the SQE programme at Kennedys.

Which offices are recruiting for the SQE programme?

Our Birmingham, Cambridge, London, Manchester, Sheffield and Taunton offices are all offering the SQE Programme from September 2022.

What is the recruitment process for the SQE training programme?

You will be asked to complete an online application form, online situational strengths assessment, video interview and an assessment day.

How long will it take to complete an application?

No longer than one hour. We like to keep things simple!

How many roles do Kennedys recruit for each year and where?

We recruit around 20 trainees each year across our UK offices. We currently have 11 opportunities available for our 2022 SQE programme across our UK offices.

Do you recruit on a rolling basis for your SQE training programme?

We review all applications once the deadline closes on 31 December 2021.