We use necessary cookies to make our site work. We would also like to set certain functional and advertising cookies to help us improve our site. We won't set optional cookies unless you enable them. Using this tool will set a cookie on your device to remember your preferences.

You can click "Accept all cookies" below to accept use of all cookies on this website, or select "Manage cookies preferences" to choose which cookies we can use. For more information about the cookies we use, see our Cookie Notice 

Reed Smith launches refreshed ‘Professional SQE Programme’ with The College of Legal Practice
08 October 2024

Reed Smith launches refreshed ‘Professional SQE Programme’ with The College of Legal Practice


Published on 08 October 2024
Partnerships College statements SQE preparation

7 October, 2024 - LONDON: Global law firm Reed Smith today announces 26 exceptionally talented future trainees have commenced a refreshed and innovative Solicitors Qualification Examination (SQE) trainee programme with the firm. 

The new model launched last month with a tailored SQE programme that gives the trainees the best opportunities for success through bespoke electives to learn Reed Smith specific content, being given a deep understanding of how the firm works from the inside before starting their training contracts, and the opportunity to work directly with clients on innovative projects. 

The firm is partnering with The College of Legal Practice (CoLP) to provide its refreshed training path. CoLP has been providing practical legal training modules for Reed Smith trainees since 2022, with specifically designed modules that enhance practice knowledge and client skills in key areas: Dispute Resolution, Private Acquisitions and Corporate Finance, alongside an optional LLM in Legal Practice.  

Building on the positive experiences & learning gained through these modules, Reed Smith trainees will now take SQE preparation courses alongside them, with the College, timed to help them quickly progress through to starting their Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) in the firm. 

Notably, the personalised supervision from the College in these legal skills modules, and their collaborative approach, has meant that Reed Smith have been able to bespoke a SQE training programme that offers the right rigour, timing and support for each of their trainees to help them pass the SQE exams and excel as a legal professional. Students on this innovative programme will continue to undertake paid Reed Smith internships.  

The first internship is spent working in one of Reed Smith’s Business Services teams, including Marketing, Practice Innovation, Business Development, Pro Bono and Legal Operations. The second sees future trainees undertake a consultancy style project for a client. As a result, students develop a deep understanding of how the firm works, gain key skills and valuable real-life experience working with clients.  

Reed Smith’s Training Principal, David Ashmore commented: “We are delighted to continue working with CoLP on our Professional SQE Programme. This innovative route will equip the next generation of exceptionally talented Reed Smith Trainees with the skills, knowledge and practical experience to ‘hit the ground running’ and excel during their QWE and beyond”. 

Dr Giles Proctor, Chief Executive Office of The College of Legal Practice said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed working with the Reed Smith team over the last three years and very pleased that they have now chosen to partner with us to deliver their whole Professional SQE Programme programme. The continuity through the programme will ensure that we can give Reed Smith’s trainees a seamless learning experience and consistent support. The team is looking forward to welcoming their September trainees.” 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About Reed Smith 

Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm dedicated to helping clients move their businesses forward. With an inclusive culture and innovative mindset, we deliver smarter, more creative legal services that drive better outcomes for our clients. Our deep industry knowledge, long-standing relationships and collaborative structure make us the go-to partner for complex disputes, transactions and regulatory matters.  

About The College of Legal Practice 

The College of Legal Practice is leading the way in preparing students for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination – the SQE. Our online legal training programmes are designed to help students pass the SQE, thanks to our experienced team led by CEO, Dr Giles Proctor, who was instrumental in the design of the SQE at Kaplan law school.  

The College is an accredited, fully virtual law school based in the UK, with years of expertise in supporting students through every SQE assessment. The legal training we offer is carefully designed to be flexible to meet the variety of students taking the SQE and the practical legal skills they are looking to develop. We collaborate closely with partner firms such as Reed Smith, and Universities, developing their SQE programmes that meets their needs. Designed for online, our courses are flexible, affordable and accessible. 

Our not-for-profit ethos means we keep our programmes low-cost and high-value. Taught by experienced solicitors, our content is grounded in real-world legal practice, with expert personal supervision and support, highly rated by our students. The College of Legal Practice is backed by over 50 years of experience in legal training, through The College of Law in Australia, helping give you the best chance of passing the SQE. 

For more information or details on partnering with us, please visit the website. For media enquiries, please contact Peter Liver on +44 7494270799 or pliver@collegalpractice.com.