Kaplan Law School has had its proposed aptitude test for the LPC squashed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). That's despite hopes that an entry test might raise the quality of the LPC intake and stop less able students throwing away good money on a course that would not ultimately lead anywhere.
Amen to that.
Sadly even [the] mildest of barriers to entry was too draconian for the SRA, which has refused to validate the move. So, rather predictably and depressingly, just about anyone with a degree and a pot of gold will still be able to start the LPC this year.
I realise that entry tests have been mooted for the LPC for years – and even more so since the massive supply/demand quotients of students / training contracts fell so far out of kilter. But this just seems like a really, really good idea. Yes, it might mean more stress, it might be gruelling, it might slap some people down and prevent them from immediately progressing to the next stage in their careers. But let’s face it: if it saves a bunch of students from blowing 8 to 15 grand for a big fat nothing, maybe it’s better being cruel to be kind.
Just a thought.
Good post, more regulation should be needed, however most good universities should have a sensible selection process in anyway. The idea that 'anyone with a degree and a pot of gold' can study for the LPC isn't quite true.
ReplyDeleteHowever, another issue is the number of talented students who're studying but failing to get a job at the end due to dwindling vacancies.
Sad when so much money is involved. Do you have any statistics to accompany this post? Would be good to see a visual breakdown of who is actually enrolling, as well as how many jobs are eventually attained.