1. Demonstrate comprehensive and systematic understanding of the legal principles underpinning Functioning Legal Knowledge 1 areas, aligned with current professional practice.

1-Knowledge and Understanding

3-Enquiry

2. Apply functioning legal knowledge to complex client scenarios, demonstrating practical understanding and alignment with professional legal practice.

5-Problem Solving

7-Application

3. Interpret and analyse legal information accurately to solve complex legal problems within the areas covered by Functioning Legal Knowledge 1.

4–Analysis

5-Problem Solving

4. Communicate ethically informed reflections on professional responsibilities, demonstrating key employability skills through the delivery of legal advice in Functioning Legal Knowledge 1 practice areas.

6–Communication

8-Reflection

Students will undertake a closed-book Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) assessment using Single Best Answer Questions (SBAQs), consistent with the SRA’s SQE1 assessment structure. The paper will consist of 90 SBAQs covering the topics in Functioning Legal Knowledge 1, delivered under timed conditions via an online platform. The time allowed for this assessment is 2 hours and 33 minutes.

The assessment replicates the format and rigour of the SQE1 to ensure students are well prepared for the external qualification exams and to maintain consistency across the legal education market. It also assesses learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, and 4.

This module covers many of the key areas of law relevant to practice in England and Wales. It includes business law and practice with a focus on company formation, directors’ duties, and insolvency. Contract law is explored through contract formation, breach, and available remedies. Tort law topics include negligence, occupiers’ liability, and product liability. The module also addresses dispute resolution, covering civil procedure, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and the litigation process. Students will study the legal systems of England and Wales, along with constitutional and administrative law, including parliamentary sovereignty and judicial review. EU law is explored with an emphasis on retained EU law, supremacy, and direct effect. Throughout the module, legal services, ethics, and professional conduct are integrated into all topics.

This module is designed to prepare you for the Functioning Legal Knowledge 1 (FLK1) component of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE1). It covers core areas of legal knowledge including Business Law and Practice, Contract Law, Tort Law, Dispute Resolution, Constitutional and Administrative Law, European Union Law, the legal system of England and Wales and aspects of Legal Services. Professional ethics as embedded throughout. The module provides you with the ability to understand, apply, and critically evaluate legal principles and procedures in these key areas of law.

This module is delivered through a blend of interactive lectures, seminars, guided self-study, and practice MCQs using digital platforms. Teaching methods are aligned with professional practice scenarios to ensure students build both substantive legal knowledge and exam-ready skills.

In terms of inclusivity, core learning materials are made available in multiple accessible formats to accommodate a range of accessibility needs.

Oxford University Press SQE1 Preparation Series
Cavendish, R. (2022). Business Law and Practice
Jones, F. et al. Foundations of Legal Knowledge, 4th ed.

OUP Prep and Practise
Practical Law, Lexis+, Westlaw, Blackboard