Exceptional Pre-College Law January Program for High Schoolers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Program Details

Course Description: Exceptional Pre-College Law January Program for High Schoolers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Law Programme

Sydney | Ages 13–18

Course Overview

The Law Programme is a rigorous academic introduction designed for students aged 13–18 who are interested in understanding how legal systems function and what it means to study law at university. The programme exposes students to law as both an academic discipline and a practical framework that governs societies, rights, and responsibilities.

Through university-style seminars, case-based discussion, and applied legal exercises, students develop independent thinking, analytical reasoning, and research skills while gaining insight into a wide range of legal pathways and careers.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

The programme is delivered through modular academic sessions that mirror undergraduate law teaching. Students are encouraged to:

• Engage critically with complex legal ideas

• Form well-reasoned, evidence-based arguments

• Participate in discussion, debate, and collaborative analysis

Teaching is academically challenging yet fully supported, with tutors adapting sessions to suit varying levels of prior exposure to legal concepts.

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Core Academic Content

Introduction to Law

Students begin by exploring law as both a system of rules and an academic subject. Topics include:

• Core legal structures and institutions

• Roles of legal professionals

• Concepts of justice, responsibility, and human rights

• The relationship between law, morality, and society

Comparative perspectives introduce students to legal frameworks in Australia and other jurisdictions, highlighting how law shapes modern societies.

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Constitutional Law

This module examines how states are governed and how power is exercised and controlled. Students explore:

• Separation of powers

• Checks and balances

• Rule of law

• Constitutional frameworks in democratic systems

Through case studies and discussion, students analyse how constitutional principles regulate state institutions and evolve over time.

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Tort Law

Students investigate private law and the policy considerations that shape legal responsibility. Key areas include:

• Negligence and duty of care

• Wrongful birth

• Psychiatric injury

Participants critically evaluate both existing legal rules and potential reforms, developing structured legal reasoning skills.

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Human Rights Law

This module introduces the protection of human rights within legal systems and the controversies surrounding their enforcement. Students examine:

• Scope of human rights legislation

• Substantive rights and judicial enforcement

• Gaps and limitations in existing protections

Critical discussion encourages students to assess how rights are balanced, protected, and challenged within courts.

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Criminal Law

Students analyse criminal law relating to offences against the person, including:

• Murder and manslaughter

• Assault and battery

• Grievous and actual bodily harm

Through problem-based and essay-style questions, students explore legal principles, defences, and opportunities for reform, strengthening analytical and evaluative skills.

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Public International Law

This module explores law beyond national borders, focusing on:

• Historical development of international law

• International institutions and legal instruments

• Interaction between national and international legal systems

Students critically assess whether international law functions in the same way as domestic legal systems.

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The Legal Profession

Students gain insight into legal education and careers in a global context, with particular focus on:

• Pathways into legal study

• Skills and attributes required for legal professionals

• Career options beyond traditional practice

This module helps students envision future academic and professional trajectories in law, policy, business, and international organisations.

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Law in Action: Practical Legal Skills

A key practical component allows students to apply theory in simulated legal settings. Participants will:

• Practice cross-examining witnesses

• Receive structured feedback on advocacy skills

• Take part in a mock criminal trial

Students assume roles such as judge, jury member, or legal advocate, integrating legal theory with persuasive argumentation and critical thinking.

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Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project, culminating in a researched presentation to peers. This project:

• Builds on a legal topic studied during the course

• Encourages independent research and application of theory

• Develops public speaking and academic presentation skills

Presentations are followed by discussion and questioning, with written feedback provided after the programme.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Optional preparatory reading or exercises may be provided in advance. These tasks help students engage more deeply in early sessions and adjust to the academic expectations of the programme.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is well suited to students who:

• Are curious about law, justice, and public affairs

• Enjoy debate, critical thinking, and structured argument

• Are considering future studies in law or related fields

• Want early exposure to university-style legal education

No prior legal knowledge is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundational understanding of legal systems

• Experience with university-style law teaching and assessment

• Enhanced critical thinking, research, and advocacy skills

• Greater clarity about legal study and career pathways

Where You’ll Stay 🏛️

Students in Sydney will reside at St. Paul’s College, located within the University of Sydney, Australia’s oldest university and a proud member of the prestigious Group of Eight.

This historic college offers a truly collegiate experience, blending academic tradition with modern comfort in the heart of the city. Students are accommodated in secure, comfortable residences with Wi-Fi, shared facilities, and dedicated residential support staff on hand throughout the programme.

Accommodation arrangements are separate for male and female students, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-supervised environment. From iconic landmarks nearby to Sydney’s world-famous harbour, students enjoy the very best of campus and city life throughout their stay.

Address: St. Paul’s College, Camperdown NSW 2050, Australia

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UCAS Points Available �*

Strengthen your UK university application by earning 8 UCAS points through this summer programme.

Students may opt in for this opportunity during the application process, allowing them to gain official UCAS-recognised points—a valuable way to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape.

• Available as an optional add-on

• Open to students aged 14 and above at the time of the programme

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Guest Speakers from Previous Summers �*

Participants will hear from inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds, offering insight beyond the classroom.

Suzanne Williams QPM

Former Senior Detective

An experienced hostage negotiator who has worked on some of the most high-profile and dangerous hostage situations worldwide, including negotiations in active war zones.

Jody Bragger

Ex-Military Officer & CEO of Midnight Runners

Former military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, the world’s largest independent running community. He is also the founder of the Mogadishu Marathon, the country’s first since the outbreak of war.

Sarah Outen

Adventurer & Explorer

A British adventurer who has successfully circumnavigated the globe, overcoming extreme conditions and long periods of isolation in some of the world’s most remote environments.

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Backed by Academic Experts �*

Our programmes are shaped and validated by an Academic Advisory Panel made up of senior Fellows and Professors from world-leading universities, ensuring academic rigour, relevance, and credibility.

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A Day in the Life �*

Morning: Start the Day Together (07:30–09:30) ☀️

The day begins with breakfast, giving students time to energise and socialise before academic sessions begin.

Late Morning: Academic Focus (09:30–11:15) �*

Students participate in structured academic sessions led by expert tutors, focusing on interactive learning, discussion, and real-world application.

Midday: Lunch & Recharge (11:15–13:15) 🍽️

A relaxed lunch break allows students to refuel and recharge before afternoon learning.

Early Afternoon: Deepening Learning (13:15–15:00) ✍️

Afternoons feature workshops, seminars, project work, and opportunities for 1:1 academic support.

Mid-Afternoon: Short Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break to refresh before enrichment activities.

Late Afternoon: Enrichment & Exploration (15:30–17:30) �*

Students enjoy masterclasses, guest speakers, creative challenges, sports, or city excursions, bringing learning beyond the classroom.

Evening: Dinner & Community Time (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Dinner provides time to unwind and reflect with peers and mentors.

Evening Activities: Culture & Connection (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings include talks, showcases, challenges, city experiences, and celebration events.

Night: Wind Down & Prepare (After 21:00) �*

Students return to accommodation to relax and prepare for the following day.

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Can the Institution Accommodate Dietary Requirements? �*

Yes. All dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Breakfast and dinner are provided by experienced college catering teams who regularly serve university students and are well-versed in a wide range of dietary needs. Dietary information is shared with catering teams in advance, though students with allergies are encouraged to confirm allergens with staff at mealtimes as an additional precaution.

Please note:

• Participants do not have access to a kitchen

• Lunch is included for most programmes

• Lunch is not included for:

• Ages 16–18 in Oxford/Cambridge

• Ages 15–18 at other campuses

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What’s Included in the Programme Fee ✅

The participation fee includes:

• Accommodation at the University of Sydney

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• 28 hours of academic sessions

• Study and lecture materials

• Designated mentors and 1:1 tutor support

• Guest speaker sessions

• Personalised tutor evaluation

• All activities, excursions, and day trips

• Comprehensive insurance

• Graduation ceremony and certificate

• Tutor-written assessment

Travel to and from the programme is not included.

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How Do I Get to the Programme? ✈️

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is the main arrival airport.

A chaperoned shared airport transfer service is available, departing at:

• 11:00

• 14:00

• 17:00

Transfer cost: £85 per journey

For train arrivals, Macdonaldtown Station is the nearest station—approximately a 14-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the college.

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Are Staff Members Background-Checked? 🛡️

Yes. All staff undergo enhanced background checks, including DBS checks in the UK or equivalent international standards. Staff also receive comprehensive safeguarding training before and during the programme.

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What Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

• Certificate of Participation (awarded at graduation)

• Detailed tutor feedback evaluating progress

• Recommendations for future academic development

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Do You Accept Non-Residential Day Students? �*

Yes, non-residential places are available.

Day students are expected to attend all activities between 09:00 and 21:30 on weekdays and must be dropped off and collected by a designated adult approved in writing by parents or guardians.

Day students:

• May join for breakfast

• Participate in all activities and excursions

• Have dinner included

• Lunch exclusions follow the same age/location rules

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Will There Be Internet Access? �*

Yes. Wi-Fi access is provided on arrival.

Students are advised to have a small mobile data package, as programme updates and important messages are communicated digitally, especially during off-site excursions.

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Do I Need a Visa to Visit Australia? �*

International participants may require a visa. Please apply well in advance, as the institution cannot be held responsible for non-attendance due to visa refusal.

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Do You Accept Students from All Nationalities? �*

Yes. The programme is committed to fostering global citizenship, respect, tolerance, and understanding. Students from all nationalities are welcome where legally and operationally possible.

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What Should I Bring? �*

A full packing list will be provided after enrolment. All students must bring a personal laptop to fully participate in academic sessions.

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What Happens on Arrivals Day? �*

Arrivals day offers a relaxed introduction to the programme.

• Rolling accommodation tours run 14:00–17:00

• Parents and families are welcome

• A Welcome Talk introduces key information and staff

• Evening activities help students bond with peers and mentors

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Excursions & Activities in Sydney 🇦�*

Explore Sydney’s Famous Landmarks

Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, visit the Sydney Opera House, and spend time at Bondi Beach, soaking in breathtaking coastal views.

Discover Sydney’s Rich History

Explore historic areas like The Rocks, and visit museums that bring Australia’s past to life.

Enjoy Cultural Adventures

Experience Sydney’s diverse culture through Chinatown, bustling markets, ferry trips to Manly, or visits to Taronga Zoo.

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A Summer Like No Other ✨

Sydney is more than a destination—it’s a place that inspires growth, independence, and new perspectives. Each day offers opportunities to learn, connect, and explore, creating an unforgettable academic and cultural experience that stays with students long after summer ends.