Law
Law is about the legal system in England and Wales.
Firstly, you will develop the fundamental knowledge and understanding of the nature of law and the English legal system. Students will then study criminal law along with its application to both fictional and real life cases. The second year focuses on civil law, namely tort law and contract law, where application and evaluation skills will be developed further.
Studying Law at A-Level will allow you to develop problem-solving skills through the application of legal rules. It also develops analytical ability and critical thinking skills.
If you decide to study A-Level Law, you will join a team which believes that your academic achievement should be our complete focus. Career progression is also a key priority, so there will be opportunities to engage with members of the legal profession. You will be encouraged to undertake work experience in a legal setting.
Entry Criteria
5 in GCSE English Language and 5 in one other essay-based GCSE subject.
Companion Subjects
Career Paths
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Legal Profession
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Law Enforcement
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Civil Service
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Youth Work
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Business Administration
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Criminology
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Social Work
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Management
Subject Intent
Studying Law helps students understand how legal systems shape society, rights, and responsibilities. This course develops critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and decision-making skills, all through studying legal rules and real-life cases. These transferable skills are valued in higher education and future careers across law, government, business, and beyond
Course Overview
You will study five core areas:
- The Nature of Law & English Legal System
Covers sources of law, roles of courts and tribunals, legal personnel, and the doctrine of precedent. - Criminal Law
Explores key offences like homicide, mens rea and actus reus, and statutory defences. - Tort Law
Looks at civil wrongs including negligence, duty of care, breach, causation, and remedies. - Law of Contract
Focuses on how contracts are formed, enforced, discharged, and what remedies are available. - Human Rights
Introduces fundamental freedoms and rights, enforcement mechanisms, and legal protections in the UK.
Assessment Structure
This qualification is 100% exam-based, featuring a mix of question types (multiple choice, short answers, extended responses) with real-world legal scenarios.
|
Paper |
Content Covered |
Duration |
Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Paper 1 |
Criminal Law & Tort |
2 hours |
33.3% |
|
Paper 2 |
Law of Contract & Human Rights |
2 hours |
33.3% |
|
Paper 3 |
The Nature of Law & English Legal System |
2 hours |
33.3% |
Homework & Independent Study
- Discuss live legal cases to stay current
- Practice exam questions in different formats
- Complete longer essays and structured responses
- Use legal textbooks, case materials, and Exampro resources for deeper understanding and exam practice
Enrichment Opportunities
- Visit courts and legal institutions
- Attend mock trials, debates, or Dramatized case nights
- Hear guest speakers from barristers, solicitors, or the judiciary
- Participate in legal clinics and essay competitions
Where Can Law Take You?
This course prepares students for careers in law, criminology, government, journalism, business, or social policy. The analytical, evaluative, and communication skills you build are valuable in almost every field—including those beyond legal professions.