“I have enjoyed studying Law as it has helped me to develop critical thinking, problem solving and research skills, as well as improving my confidence. I find it interesting how different laws affect everyday life and how legal principles can be applied to real-life situations. I also enjoyed analysing cases, building arguments, debating different viewpoints about each case. This has helped me to think logically and communicate more clearly. We started the week with a discussion on whether it is acceptable to kill in self-defence to defend the home or family. We have scenario debates on whether someone is guilty or not, based on points of law, and any arguments the defendant can potentially offer.

‘Pathways to Law’ is a programme we can do that involves visits to universities, workshops, a work placement and conferences, and is followed by a graduation ceremony at The University of Manchester! We have talks by barristers from local legal firms who talk to us about the legal system and what it is like working as a Barrister. Some firms also offer us work experience placements which is a real eye-opener to learn about some of the real-life cases they deal with. Next week, there is a trip planned to London to visit the Royal Courts of Justice, Law Courts and the Old Bailey, plus we have trips planned to local universities for taster lectures in Law and tours of the campuses. We took part in a Criminal Investigation Day with the University of Law, where we re-enacted a historical case with students from other colleges.”