Law

The Law Course at St. Michael’s Catholic School 

At St. Michael’s pupils are privileged to study Law.  It is a subject which is enjoyed by pupils as they see its relevance to their daily lives. Very often we begin lessons by discussing the latest legal issues raised in the morning papers. This is usually well received and gives pupils an opportunity to challenge or comment on the Law. 

The course has grown in popularity form its introduction four years ago when it started with thirteen pupils. Presently, over fifty pupils take Law. Our continuously improving pass rate is testament not only to the hard work of the pupils but also of their understanding of legal issues. Last year saw approximately 82% of pupils receiving grades ranging from A to C.   

In years 10 and 11 pupils are introduced to the GCSE Law syllabus.  The course is designed to give them an understanding of how laws change as society’s needs change.  Students will learn why society needs law, as well as the distinctions between the various classifications of law. The emphasis in year 11 will be on law in action. This allows pupils to study specific areas of law such as: Criminal Law, Family Law, Contract Law and Law of Tort. Pupils are also expected to complete one piece of coursework of up to 2,500 words which will account for 20% of their total marks.  

Law Trips and After School Activities 

In an effort to complete a demanding and challenging syllabus, each Thursday immediately after school, year 11s are offered an additional hour of Law where they are able to practice their examination techniques as well as engage in lively debates on legal issues.

Each year, the International Law Firm Ince & Co. host our pupils for an entire day dubbed “Incesight Day” exposing them to different aspects of work in the legal profession.  As a part of the day’s activities pupils are given a tour of the Royal Courts of Justice where they may sit in on an appeal case. Additionally, they are taken to Lloyds of London and exposed to the work done by insurance brokers and the link between insurance and Law. 

Recently, four of our year 11 Law pupils distinguished themselves by participating creditably in a Mock Trial Weekend at the Debate Chamber Queen Mary University.  We hope to continue offering this exciting experience to our pupils with the hope that from these humble beginnings in Law, there will emerge a future Queen’s Counsel!