The University of Manchester, one of the UK’s top ranked law schools, has partnered with BARBRI, the global legal education provider, to offer the University’s students and alumni a comprehensive preparation programme for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).
The partnership, announced today, creates a pathway to qualification as a solicitor for the University’s students that will benefit from BARBRI’s industry-leading legal education to prepare graduates and alumni to pass the SQE.
BARBRI SQE Prep courses will commence at the University of Manchester from Summer 2021. The two-staged course will prepare candidates for the inaugural SQE in November 2021 and will be offered at least twice a year leading into the scheduled examinations going forward.
“We are pleased to be working closely alongside BARBRI to offer a clear route to qualifying as a solicitor in England & Wales,” comments Professor Claire McGourlay, Professor of Legal Education at the University of Manchester. “BARBRI’s well-established reputation for expertly blending technology with innovative teaching strategies ensures that those studying for the SQE will be placed on a promising pathway to success.”
Current students and alumni of The University of Manchester will receive a discount on their SQE1 prep fees as part of the collaboration, and BARBRI will also offer workshops on the University’s campus from next Summer. The new partnership complements the University’s existing approach to learning, with the institution well regarded for actively encouraging students to hone their practical skills through pro-bono activities as part of The Justice Hub.
“The introduction of the SQE ensures that all qualified solicitors will meet the same high standards consistently; integral to SQE success for students and prospective students will be robust and rounded preparation. BARBRI brings together years of proven experience with world-class learning technology to deliver the best opportunity for SQE success to participating students,” says Sarah Hutchinson, UK managing director, BARBRI.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with such a prestigious University, based in the heart of the vibrant legal centre in Manchester, to help nurture the next generation of solicitors.”
The new BARBRI SQE Prep course harnesses the company’s experience and prowess in mixed subject multiple-choice testing, garnered over more than 50 years of the helping trainees pass the US Bar.
Students will benefit from access to one-to-one support with expert guidance on the SQE, learning from leading professors and practitioners. Lectures, practice questions, workshops and simulations will complement study tips and an online Personal Study Plan (PSP) to guide every assignment and activity throughout the courses.
SQE prep courses will be available to both law graduates and those with a non-legal background and will be offered on a full-time as well as a part-time basis to support those working alongside their studies.
