Richard Challoner School

Law

A Level Law

Exam Board: OCR

Subject Leader: Mr B O’Neill

A Vision for Law

It is important for people to understand the rules and regulations in civil society and what our rights and liberties are all about. It is also important to highlight areas in which the law doesn’t work and what can be done to change it. I think that basic legal knowledge is something that every citizen should be taught and this knowledge will help us to avoid being exploited or unjustly treated by our superiors.

The study of A Level Law provides grounding in the main principles of English and Welsh law. It enables candidates to develop knowledge, understanding, and critical awareness of the structure, personnel and functions of the legal system.

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.

Assessment:

Three 2 hour papers at 100 marks each.

Learners take components 1, 2 and 3 to be awarded the OCR A Level in Law.

Component 1: The legal system and Criminal law.
Component 2: Law making and the law of tort.
Component 3: The nature of law and human rights law.

Each component is weighted equally.

Other benefits to the study of A Level Law and opportunities for further progression

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. The course has been developed following the advice of teachers, students and universities.

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! The real question is not ‘Why should you study A Level Law?’ but instead, ‘Why would you not?’

Entry requirements

No prior knowledge of the subject is required. It is expected that students should have achieved at least a Level 5 in English Language and English Literature.