Inquisitive pupils grill magistrate.

On Monday morning, our inquisitive Year 6 pupils were excited to welcome magistrate Mrs Judy Hulland JP to King’s Hawford. This term, Year 6 have been learning about human rights, the laws that protect them and Britain’s parliamentary system of government. It was therefore a real treat for them to hear a talk from Mrs Hulland about magistracy.

Pupils started off by looking at the rules that they need to abide by in school and discussed the reasons these rules were in place. It was wonderful to see all of the pupils engaged in discussion. Talk then moved on to looking at rules that exist outside of school. Pupils were quick to note that the rules outside of school are known as laws. Mrs Hulland explained that once children turn 10 year of age they are at the age of criminal responsibility. Anyone aged 10 to 17 who breaks a law would need to attend a special youth court. From 18 years of age those breaking the law would go to an adult court.

Having served as a magistrate for over 15 years, Mrs Hulland enlightened the children with her knowledge and experiences of the courtroom and was inundated with questions from our inquisitive pupils in return. Pupils gained an awareness of the importance of impartiality, precedent and the representation of diverse ethnicities, religions and genders within magistracy.

Mrs Atkins and Mrs Rawnsley were very impressed with all of Year 6; the children really engaged in the topic and asked some brilliant questions.

We look forward to welcoming Mrs Hulland back again to continue discussions and explore role-play scenarios as we move into our PSHCE studies next term.