What Is the Professional Skills Course?

*The Professional Skills Course (PSC) is only required for individuals qualifying as solicitors through the Legal Practice Course (LPC) route. It is not part of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) pathway, which replaced the LPC for new entrants after September 2021. However, the PSC remains relevant for those still qualifying under the LPC route, which is permitted until 31 December 2032.

What Does the Professional Skills Course Involve?

The PSC is a mandatory final step before qualifying as a solicitor via the LPC route. It builds on earlier legal training and is designed to equip trainees with the practical skills needed for unsupervised legal practice.

The course includes:

• Three core modules:-
  • Client Care and Professional Standards (2 days)
  • Advocacy and Communication Skills (3 days)
  • Financial and Business Skills (3 days, including an exam)
• 24 hours of elective training, which varies by provider and may be tailored to individual or firm needs. Up to 50% of the electives can be taken via distance learning.

Electives are often chosen based on a trainee’s practice area or employer requirements.

Why Is the PSC Important?

The PSC focuses on practical skills that aren’t always covered in academic study, such as:

• Communicating effectively with clients and colleagues
• Handling ethical and professional responsibilities
• Understanding financial matters and business processes

It ensures that trainee solicitors are professionally prepared to provide a high standard of service and work independently after qualification.

How Long Does It Take?

The PSC usually requires around 12 full days of training, though the schedule can be flexible:

• Many trainees complete modules gradually during their training contract.
• Fast-track options allow for completion in 8 consecutive days.
• It may take several weeks or months if spread out alongside work commitments.

Some law firms provide financial support or organise in-house PSC training for their trainees.

Where Can You Take the PSC?

The PSC is offered by a range of SRA-authorised providers, including:

• University law departments
• Private legal training organisations

Providers must be approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). A full list of approved providers (including those offering fast-track courses) is available on the SRA website.

Costs vary depending on the provider and format (in-person, remote, fast-track, etc.).

Closing Thoughts

While the SQE has now replaced the LPC for new candidates, the PSC remains a required part of the legacy qualification route. If you began your LPC before September 2021 and are still completing your training contract, the PSC is an essential step on your journey to becoming a qualified solicitor.

If you’re unsure whether you fall under the old LPC route or the new SQE system, it’s best to consult the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or your training provider for the most up-to-date guidance.