SQE training contract launched by Deloitte

Accounting giant Deloitte has announced a three-year training contract that incorporates one study day a week for trainees to prepare for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).

As Legal Futures reports, the ‘big four’ accountancy firm is able to provide legal services after being granted alternative business structure status last year. Deloitte’s new training contract will enable trainees to pass both stages of the SQE by studying at the University of Law for just one day a week, rather than having to take a year out to study full-time.

A spokesperson for the firm said that law graduates would be able to start their training contracts “straight out of university, allowing them to start earning immediately while gaining qualifying legal work experience before sitting their SQE 1 and 2.”

Michael Castle, Deloitte Legal’s UK managing partner, said: “The legal training environment is undergoing significant change to contend with a rapidly evolving legal landscape. Deloitte Legal is in the fortunate position of being able to immediately adopt the new Solicitors Qualifying Exam, allowing us to be at the forefront of what is undoubtedly an exciting new era in legal education and training.

“We want to broaden access to the profession and make it as inclusive as possible. This is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring solicitors to earn while they learn, while also encountering the wealth of expertise beyond legal work that Deloitte Legal can offer as a multidisciplinary firm.”