Law
faqs
Is studying Law hard?
It is fairer to say it is challenging. It makes students think about the laws that we live by, how they were made and why and how they affect us. While there is a good degree of content in the course, you will be supported with knowledge organisers, workbooks, subscriptions to A Level Law review, flipped law and provided with a range of other revision options. In addition, you will be supported throughout by a dedicated teacher with a background in the law.
Is studying Law worthwhile?
The answer is a resounding yes!
Whether or not you are thinking of studying law at university, the subject offers a range of transferable skills for higher education and life beyond, such as analytical skills, attention to detail, logical thinking, research skills, essay writing skills and the ability to produce a balanced argument. If you are considering a career in the law, then it will give you a great grounding in the core topics. Despite the old stigma from universities in the past, Law at A Level is no longer considered a “soft subject”.
Is studying Law fun?
Absolutely! Law offers a range of interesting and engaging topics. From weird and ludicrous criminal cases, to negligence and contract scenarios which may mirror your real life experiences (and help you in the future!). Lessons are taught in a varied and engaging way, incorporating activities like class debates, quizzes, gripping videos all sitting alongside more conventional teaching. In addition, we hope to run mock criminal trials, trips to local courts and also the Houses of Parliament.
What other subjects sit well with Law?
Being successful in law comes down to two things. Your knowledge and your skills. Knowledge doesn’t just need to be directly legal based; business, accounting and economics could help boost your knowledge of commercial law and should help you demonstrate commercial awareness. Psychology, Sociology, English, History and Politics are subjects which can help you develop your critical thinking and essay writing skills. Picking a mixture of these courses would definitely help you when studying law.
Context:
You will learn about the legal system, law making, the nature of law, criminal law, the law of tort and contract law. Law students develop a range of skills, including the application of legal rules and principles to present an argument, analysis and evaluation of the law, legal issues and concepts. A Level Law provides a fascinating insight into so many different disciplines. There are many benefits of studying A Level Law. It links all aspects of society. It helps students develop a range of transferable skills: analytical skills, attention to detail, logical thinking, research skills, essay writing skills and the ability to produce a balanced argument.
The real question is not ‘Why should you study A Level Law?’ but instead, ‘Why would you not?’
Exam Board:
AQA
Assessment:
The course is taught over the two-year period and is formally assessed by way of three, 2-hour examinations at the end of the course.
Course Details:
Year 1
Paper 1
Criminal Law and the English Legal System
Paper 2
The Law of Tort and the English Legal System
Paper 3
Contract Law and the English Legal System
Other Learning Opportunities:
- We hope to provide the chance to visit the criminal and civil courts, the Houses of Parliament and other related places of interest, to bring the subject to life
- Law workshops at local universities
- Being a member of the Law Society
- The course is engaging and encourages the learner to experience the ‘law in action’
Myth Busting
There is a misconception amongst some students and teachers that universities have a negative view of A Level Law. This is simply not true and is rejected by all top universities. Many A Level Law students go on to study law at degree level and do not face any barriers due to their A Level choices.
Where next with this course?
Some students take A Level Law because they already know that they want a career in law. The A Level gives an excellent introduction for students who want to read law at university or start a legal apprenticeship. It demystifies the law. However, A Level Law is not just for students who want to enter the legal professions. It is a well-respected subject and is a welcome addition to many A Level programmes of study. A Level Law links well with science, humanities and social science subjects including; criminology, history, sociology, philosophy, economics and business, to name just a few!
Have you ever wondered...
- What is the relationship between law and morals?
- Does the law provide justice?
- How is technology changing the law?
- How can a lawyer represent someone they believe is guilty?
- Should euthanasia be legalised?
- Should life mean life?
- Why do we need law?
- How are laws made?
- How do judges make decisions?
- What are the different types of court and how do they operate?
- How do people become solicitors or barristers?
Through studying law, these and many other questions will be explored. You will develop a sound understanding of substantive areas of law (criminal law, contract law, tort law) as well as legal procedure and law-making. At the end of the course, your knowledge and understanding will be stretched even further when we consider the role that morality and justice play in the administration of justice and development of law. All this knowledge will be developed concurrently with your development as an even more articulate and analytical thinker, problem-solver, advocate and keen master of persuasion and argument. A subject that lends itself to so many other disciplines and which is inherently empowering. A Level Law is a rich addition to any student’s A Level profile and, if this diverse and fascinating subject appeals, we would welcome you within our department here at Higham Lane Sixth Form.