I have checked this with a lawyer and they have said that this is correct. You don't need to do the PGDL, you simply need to pass SQE and then apply for NQ positions (as long as your QWE is signed off as valid).Thanks a ton, guys!
It seems like the best course of action right now is to begin preparing for SQE1 so I can sit the exam as soon as I graduate, and then apply for NQ (I may also need to do PGDL, let's see). Jaysen has also suggested in another post that I email the firms I am interested in and seek clarity, as I am in a bit of a dicey situation here. Ideally, it should provide clarity on the route I need to take.