The Mayor’s Fund for London Theatre of Law have introduced over 1000 primary school children to the ins and outs of the justice system over the past year. Delivered by the National Centre for Citizenship and the Law (NCCL) who have an education team based at the Royal Courts of Justice in London, the project aims to improve students understanding of the law and contemporary justice system over two days, one of which is spent at the Royal Courts of Justice. The NCCL delivers educational programmes in legal buildings designed to boost legal literacy and encourage pupils to consider the law, how it affects them and their wider community.
Firstly students have to think about what they know already about the consequences of breaking the law and the different job roles in the legal world. At the end of the project they can consider what new things they have learnt, and the project coordinators claim it usually results in a positive increase in knowledge, awareness and aspirations to see the law and related areas as a future career.
The project encourages the development of a variety of important life, literacy and social skills, in addition to encouraging public speaking, team work and debating. Pupils leave the project more able to express their opinion both verbally and in writing and conduct analysis of evidence. The pupils work on creative crime stories based on the details of real cases and explore the consequences of crime. They have the opportunity to stage mock trials with prepared scripts and discuss punishments in the exciting environment of the Royal Courts. Participating schools will also receive a wealth of resources and access to legal education experts on hand to guide pupils through the activities.
One primary school participant told the NCCL team that through the project they had learned: “How many people can be affected by a crime… I didn't understand how serious crime can be”.
Matthew Patten, CEO Mayor’s fund for London said: “Working with young people to understand the law and their role in society at an early age is essential to ensure they play a full part in London’s future. Theatre of Law meets this need and promotes social and emotional skills that underpin effective learning and positive behaviour.” The Mayor’s Fund for London is designed to empower young Londoners from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them to acquire new skills and pursue ambitious careers.
Pollie Shorthouse, Executive Director, NCCL said: “The professional environment of the Royal Courts of Justice is an ideal venue for this project and allows pupils to learn more about crime and punishment and the legal system as they explore real courtrooms. The Mayor’s Fund for London Theatre of Law project provides opportunities to enhance knowledge and understanding of the law among young Londoners and to raise aspirations. This is something we are very passionate about.”
Theatre of Law is available for primary schools across London with above average free school meal eligibility. The project is funded by the Mayor’s Fund for London which means that schools only have to contribute £9 per pupil. Schools interested in taking part in future Theatre of Law workshops should contact: london@nccl.org.uk or call 0207 947 7047.
For more information visit http://www.nccl.org.uk/ or the www.mayorsfundforlondon.org.uk. Handsam can help you plan for your trip to the courts with our trip planning system in addition to our risk assessment guidance.
