25/05/2026
To celebrate 150 years of legal education we’ve reached out to our students, past and present, and asked them to share their stories and memories from their time with us.
In a recent blog we hear from Helen Glass, a former student who studied with us in the 1970s, and Mariana Drinkwater, one of our current students.
Together they showcase how legal education has evolved over time, in what way student support has changed and how, at the centre of it all, hard work and dedication remain key factors in success.
🧑🏫 Describe a typical lecture
🩵 Helen: “The lecturer taught the subject matter which included origins, current law and case law in a dictatorial manner. Students had to transcribe the lecture almost verbatim as one listened. It was expected that one had read the comprehensive, up to date textbook and accompanying case law compilation prior to lectures. Lecturers were highly knowledgeable, sometimes amusing, but there was no time for discussion. We were examined on the material every two weeks in the classroom and papers were strictly marked.
The course was intensive. Covering a lot of subjects within six months was demanding. The final examinations were not spaced out, in fact they were crammed together, so it was quite tough”
💜 Mariana: “As an online, part-time student a typical lecture would last an hour and focused on a dedicated legal practice area. Before each lecture, we were expected to prepare by studying the materials in the practice unit and the corresponding black-letter law using materials supplied in both textbooks and the University’s Prepare, Engage and Consolidate framework.
During the lecture, we would be guided through the substantive law and practice questions we were asked to complete would be reviewed weekly. We would also have the opportunity to ask questions to clarify legal concepts and to better understand the best approach to answer each question. I found this approach highly effective as it combined structured preparation with interactive learning and practical application.”
Read the full blog 🔗 https://ow.ly/QzcV50Z3eaa
