London South Bank University joins forces with BARBRI to offer SQE support to master’s students

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London South Bank University (LSBU), in collaboration with legal education provider BARBRI, is set to introduce Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) preparation into its legal master’s programme.  

The course, which will be available from September 2023, will constitute of 40-weeks SQE1 prep as well as offering additional problem-solving LLM modules. 

BARBRI, which is known for its innovative approach to assisting aspiring solicitors prepare for their careers in law, will also grant students access to its unique Learning Management System and study materials.  

The preparation course provider will work alongside LSBU to support students in effectively preparing for the functioning legal knowledge component of the SQE. During this time, students will also be encouraged to work towards the SQE’s qualifying work experience (QWE) component, with placements available through LSBU’s legal clinic.  

Speaking on the collaboration, Andy Unger, head of Law at LSBU, said: “We hope that through this programme at LSBU, we will take another step towards creating a more accessible route to participation to enable students from a wide range of backgrounds to build successful legal careers.” 

BARBRI has more than 50 years’ experience delivering exam preparation within the legal industry and has seen exceptional pass rates within its inaugural SQE1 (77% pass rate) and SQE2 (83% pass rate) cohorts compared with the industry averages standing at 54% (SQE1) and 71% (SQE2).  

Chris Jorgeson, senior director of institutional partnerships at BARBRI, spoke on the difficulties aspiring solicitors have in accessing the legal profession “as demonstrated by the inaugural SQE1 and SQE2 pass rates, despite the SRA’s hopes that the SQE would help to diversify the profession”. Adding that he understands students’ success is reliant on support from institutions across the industry. He said: “That’s why we are thrilled to join forces with LSBU to take a forward-thinking approach that will truly benefit the individual. We look forward to seeing the first cohort get started this autumn.” 

Want to know more about passing the SQE? Check out our webinar ‘Understanding the SQE with BARBRI’.