Leeds Law School

You Said it We Did It: Why student feedback matters at Leeds Law School

As we approach the end of 2022, we are pleased to reflect on some new initiatives we have recently introduced at Leeds Law School, in direct response to student feedback.

Image of female student listening to lecture

We love receiving feedback from our students because it helps us make measurable improvements to how we do things at Leeds Beckett. At the beginning of the Autumn term, we conducted a student survey, and then again before reading week. Thanks to everyone who took part, it really does make a difference.

Because of that feedback, we have now introduced a number of improvements to make life better for students at Leeds Law School. 

 

You asked for more opportunities to participate in additional mooting competitions…

Dr Kaushik Paul is the new mooting co-ordinator and there will be a series of internal and external competitions taking place in 2023. Watch this space!

You said that you wanted more real legal work experience and volunteering opportunities…

We have partnered with the charity Support Through Court, to give free assistance to litigants in person. Apply to volunteer with them by emailing Dr Rachel Dunn, Course Director of Employability and Pro Bono services.

You said that you wanted some time to participate in sports and social clubs…

We have created a teaching free slot for all undergraduate students on a Wednesday afternoon, to dedicate to wellbeing and sports and social activity.

You said that you wanted more pastoral support…

We have adopted a new attendance monitoring system, where we reach out to students who are not attending university regularly to offer support.

You said you wanted more information on your future options…

We held an MLaw Information Event in November. In semester two, we are organising a panel on military and police careers, a speaker from the Judicial Appointments Commission is confirmed to talk about equality and diversity in the judiciary, and we are lining up speakers from the local government to talk to our students. Keep an eye on the School’s enrichment programme for the confirmed schedule of events.

You said you wanted more Pro Bono opportunities…

We brought you Pro Bono Week in November - a digital event in collaboration with BPP and SHU Law.  This semester, our Law Clinic has also interviewed and provided advice to 32 clients, covering a wide range of legal issues, including discrimination, unfair dismissal, discharging a care order, financial support for special guardians, service of divorce proceedings where there are jurisdictional issues, personal injury claims and disputes with builders. 

You said you wanted some flexibility during rail strikes…

We will help to find an alternative session if you are unable to attend university due to the rail strikes.

You asked for more information on law graduate opportunities…

We have organised the Leeds Law School Law Fair, taking place on Wednesday 22 February 2023. 

You said that you wanted more opportunities to network…

Our student enrichment programme has been busier than ever. Just this term, students took part in trips to Trinity Chambers Commercial Litigation Conference, and Exchange Chambers in Leeds to get a glimpse of life as a working barrister, while others attended insight days at leading law firms and secured mini pupillages at the Inns of Court. We also held our first in-person mentoring event since the pandemic, partnered with Bupa who are offering mentoring to students, and held a micro-internship with not-for-profit organisation, Common Purpose, for students from all year groups. 

Leeds Law School

Our Law School sits in the heart of the great city of Leeds, one of the UK's largest legal hubs. It is perfectly placed to ensure all our undergraduate and postgraduate students are able to mine the wealth of practical experience and employment opportunities available on our doorstep.