Law

Course full title: A Level Law

Exam Board: OCR

Specification Code: H415

Why study Law?


Why study Law? Students will learn about the legal system, law making, the nature of law, criminal law, the law of tort and human rights law or the law of contract. 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 an introduction to law. It allows students to learn about a fascinating subject, one which covers many aspects of life.
Students of A Level Law will:

  • Develop an understanding of law and how it works
  • Learn more about society from a legal perspective – both contemporary and historical
  • Learn about the interaction between law and morals, justice and society
  • Learn about different areas of law – e.g. criminal law, human rights, contract and tort
  • Make connections with business, economics, history, politics and technology
  • Develop academic skills, including analysis and evaluation
  • Be able to make an informed decision about future careers.






What will I study over the two years?


A Level Law covers a wide range of subject content including:

  • the legal system
  • law making
  • criminal law
  • the law of tort
  • the nature of law
  • contract law or human rights law

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 course is engaging and encourages the learner to experience the ‘law in action’. Visits to the criminal and civil courts, the Houses of Parliament and other related places of interest, bring the subject to life.
  • The study of law links with other areas of study – e.g. business, economics, history, politics and sociology.


What makes a good A Level Law student?


Are you interested in a becoming a solicitor, barrister or legal executive? Are you interested in a career in business? Are you interested in a career in politics or government? Are you studying business or economics? Are you studying humanities or social science subjects? Are you interested in debating controversial issues?
If so, A Level Law could be for you.
You do not need any prior experience to study Law; however, to succeed you need to be keen to read widely and extend your knowledge with real life scenarios.


Where could A Level Law take me?


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. Universities recognise the advantages of A Level Law and the old view that it should not be studied has long since faded away.
 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 subjects and humanities and social science subjects including, history, sociology, philosophy, economics and business, to name just a few!


How will I be assessed?


• 3 x 2hour exams including essay questions and legal scenario questions


What are the entrance requirements?


  • Grade 5 or above in English Language
  • 5 or more grades 5-9; including equivalents across at least 5 subjects
  • Maths Grade 4 or above
  • Average GCSE GRADE of at least 4.0 (average of ALL GCSE full courses taken)


f you have any questions about our Law A Level please email Mrs Denman cdenman@oriel.w-sussex.sch.uk, who would be very happy to answer any questions.