There was a reduction in the number of candidates sitting the spring exam due to fewer resits; the number of first-time candidates was in line with previous exams.

The overall pass rate of 57 per cent from a total entry of 184 candidates for the spring exam is very much in line with previous pass rates.

Without doubt the most pleasing figure was the number of candidates retaking the exam who achieved a pass – 70 per cent.

This was significantly higher than pass rates for resit candidates over the past three years.

The logbook pass rate gets ever closer to 100 per cent.

It stood at 98 per cent this time, which is excellent news.

The news report proved to be the most difficult element, with only 60 per cent getting a pass mark, despite the topical subject matter and plentiful supply of good quotes, strong statistics and choice of angles.

The newspaper practice paper, which tested knowledge of libel, contempt, the identification of young offenders, anonymity for the victims of sexual offences and the PCC code, brought a 66 per cent pass rate.

The approach to some questions, a lack of understanding of the law and time management in the exam were among the reasons given for some of the failures.

This suggests that some candidates were ill-prepared.

In the interview section, 72 per cent of candidates passed.

Although the story was simple and relatively straightforward, it required – as always – good structure and a high level of detail.

It was rewarding to see plenty of strong intros and many examples of a logical approach that included a mix of accurate quotes and reported speech.

I am satisfied that the degree of difficulty in all these elements has once again proved a challenging test of a candidate's ability.

Congratulations to all those who earned the badge of seniority.

My thanks go to the examiners for their thoroughness and dedication to applying a consistent standard of marking across the four elements.

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