Pupils from Moorgate Primary School in Bolton recently took part in a new educational workshop with the National Centre for Citizenship and Law (NCCL).
The workshop took place at Moot Courtroom at the University of Bolton.
The new workshop called Law and University Life typically lasts for two hours and helps school children develop a deeper understanding of the law and raises awareness of higher education options.
School Travel Organiser focuses on what Moorgate Primary School achieved from visiting the University of Bolton.
The aim
The aim of the workshop was to get the children inspired by their rights and responsibilities and to play an active role in society.
In addition, students had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of the court system and learn about values, law and democracy.
Pictured: Pupil taking part in court role play.
Law and University Life workshop
During their visit, pupils from Moorgate Primary School in Bolton took part in various activities that centered around Law.
The workshop was split into two sections. The first part of the session involved a two hour session in the courtroom. This session involved activities such as role playing and re-enacting a trial based on a real case, debates discussing sentencing options, reflection on consequences, and empowerment to live and work within the law.
The second half of the session involved a guided exploration visit around the university campus, exploring potential career options and broader educational opportunities.
The outcome
In effect, the school was able to demonstrate high levels of understanding of the consequences of actions and how the law affects them. The pupils also got to learn more about rights and responsibilities including the age of criminal responsibility.
Visiting this court in Bolton within the University building also provided an important opportunity for the children to engage with local higher education institutions and got them thinking about future career choices.
A Year 5 pupil said: “I found the role play interesting”.
Another pupil, also in Year 5, commented: “I liked being the prosecutor and acting it out”.
The workshop is available for both Primary schools, Secondary schools and college students.
Pictured: Pupils from Moorgate Primary School.
The NCCL
The NCCL delivers educational workshops in courtrooms across the UK, including Manchester and the North West, working with groups of all ages including university level and adult education.
The workshops that the NCCL run enable people to gain a practical understanding of the law and justice system and its related history.
Kath Downs, learning manager for the NCCL Courts of Justice Programme in the North West, commented: “Our courtroom learning activities are based on real trials and help empower young people to live and work within the law.
“The group really engaged in debating the verdict of whether the defendant on trial was guilty or not guilty. “
From February 2017 the National Centre for Citizenship and the Law (NCCL) will become part of the newly formed National Justice Museum, which currently incorporates the NCCL, the Galleries of Justice Museum and the City of Caves.
For more information visit www.nccl.org.uk/?activity=law-and-university-life-primary-schools.
