Law - Applied Subsidiary Diploma

The BTEC Level 3 Certificate is equivalent to an AS level and comprises of three units which are covered over a one-year period. The BTEC National Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one A level. It comprises of 6 units and is studied over a two-year period. There are three compulsory units in year one, the rest being optional. It is important that students have a lively and enquiring mind, an interest in Law, a willingness to explore new ideas and an ability to communicate their Ideas effectively.

Year 1 (Certificate)

The Level 3 Certificate (AS) comprises the following 3 units:

Unit 1: Dispute Solving in the Legal System

This covers the difference between civil and criminal law, how this determines in which courts disputes are resolved in the legal system, it covers the legal profession and the judiciary, and how to solve disputes outside of courts.

Unit 2: Understanding Law Making

This unit covers how laws are made in the UK, together with knowledge of how laws are interpreted by Judges in court, and how laws are made in the EU (European Union) and their effect on us in the UK.

Unit 3: Aspects of Legal Liability 

This covers both Civil and Criminal Law. In Civil Law we will study the Tort of Negligence, i.e. how you can sue someone, how the court action will go, what compensation will be awarded and how it is paid. In Criminal Law we will study the non-fatal offences including assault, battery, ABH and GBH. You will be able to advise on the criminal charge, and likely outcome to a given case study scenario.

To obtain the Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma (A level equivalent), the following additional 3 units will be covered:

Unit 4: Unlawful Homicide and Police Powers

Unit 5: Aspects of Property Offences and Police Powers

Unit 10: Aspects of Family Law

There are no examinations. The course is assessed through assignment work that is completed throughout the year.

Applied Law is an exciting course which allows pupils to explore Law and the legal system in a practical setting. The BTEC Applied Law course allows students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding through the completion of assignments which will be continuously assessed. There is no final written examination, so for those who enjoy coursework, and are perhaps considering a career in the Law as a legal secretary, legal executive or paralegal, this course is ideal.

5 GCSEs A*-C including English Language.