About the course

The aim of the A Level Law course is to develop:

Knowledge and understanding of the English legal system and areas of both private and public law within the law of England and Wales
An understanding of legal method and reasoning as used by lawyers and the judiciary
Apply the techniques of legal method and reasoning to analyse and offer answers to problems, based on legal principles, legislation and case law
The ability to construct conclusions and communicate legal arguments by reference to appropriate legal authorities
The ability to communicate persuasive legal arguments by reference to appropriate legal authorities and to be able to demonstrate critical awareness of the influence and operation of the law in society

The Sheffield Sixth Form is one of only a few providers in the region that offer Law as an A Level. This A Level can be studied alongside Business and Criminology to form a strong base for studying subject such as law, criminology, psychology or business at university level.

A Level students are expected to devote as much time outside the classroom to their studies as they do in lessons. Homework will be set regularly but students are expected to undertake self-directed research as well. Students are also expected to complete work experience alongside their A Levels. This can be done in a variety of different ways including volunteering, youth work, victim support, police special*   

*Please note – some of these opportunities are age-related and may require an enhanced DBS. 

Key Units

The Legal System and Criminal Law (Component 01)

The component introduces learners to the legal system and is split in two sections:

• Section A - The Legal System
• Section B - Criminal Law

It also introduces learners to the concept of liability through an introduction to criminal law and focusses on the civil and criminal courts, the legal professions and access to justice. Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the processes and people involved in the law and the changing nature of the legal system.

Law Making and the Law of Tort (Component 02)

This component introduces learners to the concept of liability through an introduction to the law of tort and is split into two sections:

• Section A - Law Making
• Section B - The Law of Tort

It focusses on the rules of tort, liability in negligence, occupiers’ liability and remedies. Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the law and tort and will further develop their skills in applying their legal knowledge to scenario-based situations, gaining a critical awareness of the present state of the law of tort.

Further Law (Component 03)

This component will enable learners to extend their study of law. They will explore and consider in more detail the nature of law and develop their legal knowledge through the study of either human rights or the law of contract.  

Entry Requirements

To study 3 A Levels

5+ GCSEs grades 9-4 in different subjects, including English Language and Maths at a minimum of grade 4.

 

Assessment

There are 3 external examinations covering the three components/units. Each exam is 2 hours long.

 

Where does this lead

This A Level provides a suitable opportunity for the study of law or related courses in higher education. Equally, it is suitable for learners intending to pursue business careers or further study in business, social sciences or as part of a course of general education.

The Sheffield College offers a variety of Higher Education courses including foundation degrees, HNCs and full Bacehlors degree programmes. This A Level can lead onto these higher level programmes. 
 

Future Opportunities

A law degree is a gateway to a career as a solicitor or barrister, but it's not the only path you can choose. Many career options are available to you beyond the legal profession, including:

• Barrister/Barrister’s Clerk
• Solicitor
• Patent Attorney
• Chartered Legal Executive
• Paralegal
• Company Secretary
• Police
• Probation and Prison Service
• The Crown Prosecution Service
• Licensed Conveyancer
• Advice Worker
• Chartered Accountant
• Civil Service Administrator
• Data Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Mediator
• Financial Services
• Stockbroker
• Trading Standards Officer

Tell Me More

Trips and visits

Educational trips and visiting speakers will support the teaching of this A Level. It is expected that students will attend any education visits and visiting speakers, however due to the nature of certain establishments and the availability of speakers, these may be at times outside of normal timetabled classes.

Extra Costs

Please note there may be costs associated with educational visits and students may be asked to contribute towards transport and any entry fees for trips/visits.
Students in financial hardship may be eligible to apply to the Student Support Fund for help towards course related expenses.