What is better LLM SQE or SQE Preparation Courses - or Training contract?

My own view is go straight on from your LLB to something like the BPP SQE1 and 2 preparation course (with masters if you need a post grad student loan to cover fees); whilst also applying as much as you can for vac schemes and TCs now, this summer and during your course. The masters bit of the SQE courses is not a normal masters - it is just one to get you student loan funding. If you don't need the funding there is no advantage or point to doing the masters.

Thank you for your reply! I have been extremely conflicted by all these questions and your reply has brought great clarity. As funding may be a concern, the LLM SQE may be the most viable option for me. I would have loved a TC or entry-level legal job by now, however, I have been unsuccessful with this and in the meantime, I could go through with the SQE and still apply in conjunction. I could benefit from doing the SQE instead of waiting around unemployed.

BPP isn't great on an administrative level, but the teaching is generally pretty good. They tend to have current/former practitioners as teachers which is valuable. I don't think there is anything between ULaw and BPP - my advice is apply for all the available scholarships then go with whoever is cheaper.

Thank you for your reply! I have been extremely conflicted by all these questions and your reply has brought great clarity. As funding may be a concern, the LLM SQE may be the most viable option for me. I would have loved a TC or entry-level legal job by now, however, I have been unsuccessful with this and in the meantime, I could go through with the SQE and still apply in conjunction. I could benefit from doing the SQE instead of waiting around unemployed.