Why software matters more under SQE

The SQE has increased flexibility — but also complexity.

Firms now manage:

• Competency tracking
• Supervisor engagement and sign-off
• Reporting for L&D and leadership
• QWE recording across multiple placements

Manual processes or disconnected systems struggle to cope with this.

The right software reduces administrative burden but more importantly, it improves the quality of training and development.

The three levels of QWE recording systems

Understanding the different types of systems available is an important starting point when assessing how QWE is managed within a firm. Broadly, these systems fall into a few categories, each offering a different level of capability.

At the most basic level are linear tools such as Word documents, spreadsheets, and simple time recording systems. While easy to use, they are static and become difficult to manage as programmes grow. Reporting is limited, and there is no effective way to map work against QWE competencies, which restricts oversight.

Activity-based tools, including journaling apps and basic task trackers, improve day-to-day recording and are generally easier for trainees to use. However, their value is largely confined to capturing activity. They offer limited analysis, weak competency reporting and only a partial view of overall development. More advanced are integrated QWE and trainee management platforms, designed specifically for legal training. These bring together structured records, competency mapping, supervisor sign-off and reporting in one place, along with clearer progress tracking and firm-wide visibility. For firms managing QWE at scale, this level of system is central to help ensure consistency, governance and oversight.

The core features that matter

When evaluating software, focus on the features that directly impact outcomes.

1. Structured QWE recording

• Guided journal entries
• Clear capture of tasks, context and reflection
• Consistency across users

2. Competency mapping

• Direct linkage to the Statement of Solicitor Competence
• Ability to map one task to multiple competencies
• Visibility of coverage and gaps

3. Supervisor sign-off functionality

• Easy access to trainee records
• Ability to review and sign off efficiently
• Support for incremental (not just final) sign-off

4. L&D and firm-level visibility

• Oversight of all trainees in one place
• Ability to monitor engagement and performance
• Data to support decision-making

5. Progression tracking

• Clear visibility of development over time
• Evidence of increasing responsibility and capability

6. Dynamic reporting and analytics

• Real-time reports on progress and engagement
• Ability to filter by trainee and cohort
• Identification of gaps and development needs

7. Ease of use

• Intuitive interface for trainees and supervisors
• Minimal training required
• High engagement as a result

8. Effortless data consolidation

Importing previous QWE records for continuity and ease of evidence.

Beyond features: What actually drives value

The systems that deliver the most value tend to go beyond simply meeting baseline requirements. In practice, what matters is whether they encourage consistent engagement from trainees, make it straightforward for supervisors to stay involved and generate insights that are genuinely useful rather than just adding to the volume of data. They should also reduce the administrative burden on L&D teams not add to it.

Ultimately the objective is not just to record QWE but to support stronger, measurable development outcomes. Your trainees don’t just need to ‘pass’ their QWE but show they have developed the skills and gained the experience to become the solicitors the firm requires.

Common mistakes when choosing software

1. Using generic systems

Standard LMS or HR systems often lack the specialist functionality required for QWE.

2. Prioritising cost over capability

Lower-cost tools often create inefficiencies that outweigh any savings.

3. Underestimating reporting needs

Without robust reporting, firms lose visibility and control.

How Fresh Unity meets these requirements

Fresh Unity is a specialist platform designed specifically for legal training and QWE management.

It provides:

• Structured QWE recording aligned to SRA competencies and firm checklists
• Simple, efficient supervisor sign-off
• Dynamic reporting and gap analysis
• Full visibility for trainees, supervisors, and L&D teams
• Integrated approach across trainee, paralegal, and QWE pathways

Choosing the right system

When evaluating options, ask:

• Does this system support competency-led development?
• Can supervisors engage with it easily?
• Does it provide meaningful and evidential reporting?

If the answer to any of these is unclear, the system is unlikely to deliver long-term value.

Next steps?

If you are reviewing your current systems, we’d be delighted to run a short demo of Fresh Unity for you. Do get in touch if we can help.