The SRA hosted a summit in October 2024 to discuss the University of Exeter’s research into differential outcomes in legal professional assessments. An output of the summit was the development of an action plan involving a variety of stakeholders. One of the actions focused on what can be done to help candidates prepare more effectively for the SQE assessments.

As a result of the action plan the Kaplan Assessments team will take two key actions:

• run a workshop for organisations involved in producing candidate preparation materials for SQE1, specifically multiple choice questions (MCQs). The aim of the workshop is to help organisations better align SQE1 preparation MCQs with the MCQs candidates face in the SQE1 assessments, and therefore improve the effectiveness of preparation for SQE candidates.
• provide further information on the SQE website about the drafting of SQE1 MCQs, including summarising the key points from the workshop for all candidates and stakeholders.

Who is the workshop for?

This workshop is for organisations such as training providers, universities and any other organisations that produce SQE1 practice or example MCQs. If the workshop is oversubscribed, we may need to limit attendance to one or two people per organisation.

When and how will the workshop take place?

In the week commencing 7 July 2025. It will be held online.

What will the workshop involve?

The workshop will start with a short session to explain best practice principles for writing single best answer MCQs. There will then be an interactive session to review and discuss MCQs that have been submitted by the attendees in advance. The workshop will be led by the Kaplan Assessments academic team responsible for writing SQE1 assessment questions, using the same principles and process as for SQE1 assessment questions.

How do I express an interest in attending?

Complete our expression of interest form by no later than 4pm on Friday 6 June 2025.

Will I be provided with more information about the workshop?

Yes. Once the applications have been received, further information will be provided about the workshop, including the preparation required, the timing of the workshop, and an agenda.

What if I am unable to attend the workshop?

Information will be made available on the SQE website summarising the key points from the workshop. This information will not include details of attendees at the workshop, or the specific questions discussed. Example questions will be used to demonstrate the key points.

What if I have any initial queries?

Further information will be provided about the workshop once applications have been received. If you have any initial queries, please contact enquiries@sqe.sra.org.uk.