How to Record QWE

Recording Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) is a crucial part of the journey for aspiring solicitors. It provides the foundation for confirming that candidates have developed the necessary competencies during their placements. This guide explains how both employers and candidates can best approach the recording process to ensure a smooth and effective QWE confirmation.

Recording QWE: A Collaborative Effort
Employers and those managing volunteers should work closely with their candidates to establish the best way to record QWE. The recording process should be tailored to suit both the candidate and the organisation, ensuring that it captures the competencies developed during the placement.

For candidates completing QWE across multiple placements, it is essential to create a record-keeping system that can be easily accessed by different organisations. This ensures consistency and accuracy in documenting their progress, regardless of where the experience is gained.

Using the SRA Template
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) provides a template designed to help candidates and employers record QWE. While it is not mandatory to use this template, it serves as a useful tool to guide the recording process. If organisations prefer to develop their own template, they can refer to the SRA's guidance on recording QWE to ensure that their system meets the necessary standards.

Regardless of the format used, the record must accurately document the competencies developed and the ways in which they were achieved. This detailed record will be essential for the solicitor or Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) responsible for confirming the QWE to the SRA.

Regular Discussions and Clarity
The QWE record should serve as the foundation for regular discussions between the candidate and the solicitor or COLP confirming the experience. These conversations are crucial to ensure that both parties are clear on which competencies have been developed and that the evidence supporting this is adequate.

Although the SRA does not require submission of the QWE record, maintaining clear and up-to-date records is good practice. This is especially important in case any issues arise when confirming a candidate’s QWE. Accurate documentation can help resolve any discrepancies or concerns.

Long-Term Record-Keeping Practices
Employers should consider it good practice to keep records of all employees, including those hired on a temporary basis. This is particularly important if a candidate approaches a former employer to confirm QWE retrospectively. Having detailed records of the candidate's role and work during their time with the organisation can facilitate the confirmation process.

Employers are encouraged to make reasonable and proportionate efforts to accommodate requests for confirming past QWE. By keeping comprehensive records, employers can help ensure that candidates are able to have their QWE confirmed, even if they have moved on to other opportunities.

Recording QWE effectively is a shared responsibility between candidates and employers. Whether using the SRA's template or a custom system, the key is to maintain accurate and detailed records of the competencies developed during placements. These records will not only support the QWE confirmation process but also help ensure that candidates are fully prepared for the next steps in their journey to becoming qualified solicitors.