SRA Extends SQE Spell-Checker Trial for October 2026 Sitting

On October 20, 2026, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) confirmed it is extending its trial of a spell-check tool for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE2) written assessments to the October 2026 sitting, having initially introduced it in July.

This extension is legally significant as it reflects the SRA's ongoing commitment to refining the SQE assessment process, balancing the need for rigorous evaluation with providing appropriate support to candidates. While a spell-checker might seem a minor addition, its availability can reduce anxiety for candidates regarding minor typographical errors, allowing them to focus more on the substantive legal content and practical skills being assessed. However, the SRA's explicit clarification that the tool does not offer grammatical corrections or writing assistance underscores that fundamental legal writing skills remain paramount.

The legal context for this development is the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), which serves as the new, centralised assessment for all aspiring solicitors in England and Wales. SQE2 specifically evaluates practical legal skills, including written communication, across 12 written assessments and four oral exercises. The SRA, as the regulatory body for solicitors, is responsible for ensuring the fairness, integrity, and effectiveness of these examinations. The decision to extend the trial was based on a recommendation from the SQE independent reviewers, indicating a data-driven approach to assessment design and continuous improvement. Crucially, the SRA has reiterated that existing guidance on spelling and grammar remains unchanged, meaning candidates are still expected to demonstrate clear, precise, concise, and acceptable language.

Key parties involved include the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), which is implementing and overseeing the trial; Pearson, the provider of the assessment platform where the tool is available; and the SQE independent reviewers, whose recommendations influenced the SRA's decision. Solicitor Noella Gooden is also mentioned in a related context, highlighting broader concerns about the impact of exams on the legal aid pipeline.

For aspiring solicitors preparing for SQE2, the continued availability of the spell-check tool should be noted, but it must not be seen as a substitute for developing robust spelling and grammar skills. The SRA's emphasis on clear, precise, and concise legal language means that candidates must still master these fundamentals. Legal educators and training providers should continue to focus on comprehensive legal writing instruction, ensuring that students understand the limitations of such tools and the enduring importance of strong communication in legal practice. This development also signals the SRA's adaptive approach to integrating technology into its assessment framework.