AS Law: a Student's Perspective

When I first chose to study law at AS level I wasn't really sure what to expect and feared that it might be a very heavy subject, perhaps at times rather dull, but from the first lesson I instantly knew that it suited me well. The teacher brought her experience to the classes, going beyond the usual 'by-the-book' methods to create a more personal and real experience that kept the subject real.

The lessons generally consist of note-taking, discussions, practice exam questions (which were started right at the beginning of the course so that we know what to expect for the summer exams) and role-playing of the court system. We have also met some guest speakers, including an ex-police detective and an experienced solicitor, all of whom had a number of stories to tell. This also kept the lessons alive and the discussions encouraged the class members (a large number of whom aspire to be involved in law in their future careers) to hold their own opinions and to express them appropriately.

Trips have also been organised: one to both the magistrates and crown courts, where we got a chance to sit in on various cases to get a more thorough understanding of the court process including charges, pleas, defences and sentencing.

Although I am just a few months into the course I have already developed a keen interest in the subject, which I can see continuing throughout the two years of A level and possibly further into my future.  

Stephen, Year 12 Cotham School AS Law Student

Law in Action!

AS Law Students Visit Bristol Courts, Monday 16^th November

Some Students' Comments:

• "I thought the trip was good because it showed the differences between the magistrates, crown court, solicitors and barristers clearly. It also showed the extreme differences between the cases held at different courts and the atmospheres"
•  "A  real court is so much different form the ones you see on television"
• "I liked the informal feel of the visit and would love to visit the Crown Court again"
• "We got to hear both sides. It was very exciting to watch how it happens/takes place"
• "It allowed me to see all the action I've been reading about in my studies. I was thoroughly able to witness what each person does in their role in the court."

AS Law Guest Speakers:

• DC Steve Hill who came into a Cotham AS law class to talk about his job, real-life cases and student views of the police; he also offered work experience with the police force to students who expressed an interest. 
• A police station solicitor gave a talk to Cotham AS law students about his job representing suspects at station and a mock police interview (teacher as the suspect, students as police, solicitor representing the suspect).