News release

New Director of Education and Training appointed

14 April 2022

We have appointed Julie Swan as Director of Education and Training, a role which will include leading the ongoing delivery of the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination). Julie will succeed the present incumbent, Julie Brannan who leaves in June this year after a hugely successful period in this important position.

Julie has extensive experience of regulatory practise education policy, and assessment, including from senior positions at the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education and as Executive Director of General Qualifications and Deputy Chief Regulator at the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual).

As well as the SQE, Julie will also be responsible for monitoring legacy qualifications such as the Legal Practice Course and overseeing the continuing competence regime for the profession. She will also be responsible for assessing external changes affecting education and training and developing SRA policy in this area.

Paul Philip, CEO of the SRA said: 'We are delighted to welcome Julie to the SRA. Her experience will prove invaluable in helping us to drive forward and further develop the successful implementation of the SQE, and our wider work to assure ongoing standards within the profession.'

Julie Swan added: 'I am greatly looking forward to taking up the position, where I believe I can draw on my regulatory and assessment experience to take forward the SRA's important work on standards and continuing competence.

'In particular, this is a hugely exciting time to be getting involved with the SQE, as the new approach to qualifying not only beds in, but we work to realise the long-term benefits, such as maintaining consistent high standards and opening up access.'

Julie will take up her new post in early summer.