Tiled background

Beyond textbooks

One of the standout features of Leeds Beckett is its commitment to modern and effective teaching techniques. Unlike traditional lecture-heavy approaches, our lecturers employ a mix of interactive lectures, seminars, group work, and workshops. I find this variety not only keeps the content fresh but also caters to different learning styles.

In my Criminal Law class, our teacher uses case studies, active interactive discussions, and role-playing exercises to illustrate legal principles. I remember one session where we delved into a famous case study, and I was assigned the role of the defence attorney. Arguing my case in front of the class made the material come alive and deepened my understanding of the legal system.

Another memorable seminar involved our professor asking us directly, "Have you ever committed a crime?" the intensity of these questions and the ensuing debates made the legal concepts much more tangible and personal. Being questioned about my own hypothetical criminal liability added a real-world dimension to our studies, making each lesson both challenging and incredibly engaging.

Top teaching styles

At Leeds Beckett, the coursework is designed to be both challenging and stimulating. Each assignment is a chance to dive deeper into the subject and apply our knowledge in practical ways. The projects often encourage working together, which helps build a sense of community and teamwork among you and your classmates.

One of my favourite parts about the teaching here is that we're encouraged to discuss and come up with our own answers to the legal cases we cover. For instance, in my contract Law lectures, it's pretty common for over a hundred of us to argue and debate over a real-life case. I remember one lively debate where we split into groups, each representing different sides, and the room was full of energy as we presented our perspectives and challenged each other’s viewpoints. It made learning so much more dynamic and fun.

Theory to practise

The university understands the importance of employability and provides so much support to ensure we are ready to enter the professional world with confidence.

One of the standout features for me is the help with developing a strong CV and interview skills. I remember attending a workshop where we had the chance to bring in our CVs and get one-on-one feedback from career advisors. It was incredibly helpful to see exactly how to highlight my strengths and experiences. They showed me how to better showcase my internship at a local law firm, which I hadn’t realised could be such a strong selling point.

Workshops, events, and seminars are regularly held to guide us through crafting an impressive CV and cover letter. I participated in a seminar that focused specifically on cover letters, the speaker broke down each section and shared examples of what makes a cover letter stand out. By the end of the session, I had a much clearer idea of how to write compelling narratives about my achievements and skills. I also attended mock interview events, where professionals from various industries came in to conduct practice interviews. My first mock interview was a bit nerve-wracking, but it gave me a chance to practice my responses and receive constructive feedback. It was reassuring to know what to expect and how to handle tricky questions.

These sessions provide insights into what employers are looking for and how to effectively present our skills and experiences, effectively preparing us for a future beyond Leeds Beckett. Overall, the hands-on support and practical advice from these sessions have been invaluable in preparing me for my career. 

Lecturer support = student success

The support from lecturers at Leeds Beckett is unparalleled. From the very first day, I felt that my success was their priority. They are approachable, responsive, and always willing to provide guidance, whether it’s through office hours or emails.

When I was struggling with a complex topic in my Public Law seminar. I felt completely lost and was worried it would affect my grades. I reached out to my lecturer, and they immediately set up a time to meet with me. During our meeting, they explained the concept in a simplified manner, using real-life examples that made it much easier to grasp. Their patience and dedication really helped clear up my confusion and boosted my confidence.

The university also offers various support services, including tutoring and academic advising. These resources are amazing, especially during exam periods or when working on major projects. The lecturers and support staff genuinely care about our academic and personal well-being, and I definitely feel like I am in an environment where I am valued and supported.

Leeds Beckett University has really nailed it when it comes to creating a great educational experience, especially for us Law students. The way they teach is innovative and keeps things interesting, and the coursework is challenging but engaging. Plus, the lecturers are always there to support us. It all comes together to make a dynamic and supportive place to learn and grow.

More from the blog

All blogs