Year 6 Learn About Law and Justice in Visit from Local Magistrates

Year 6 had a fascinating and thought-provoking visit from three local magistrates this week, who came into school to share their experiences and explain the role of magistrates in the UK justice system. The session began with a discussion about rules in school, why they exist, and how this connects to the wider world, including laws that govern both children and adults. The pupils explored who creates laws, how they are enforced, and what happens when they are broken.

The magistrates explained that they:

• Represent the Crown

• Are ordinary members of the public aged 18–75

• Work as volunteers (much to the children’s surprise!)

• Can trace their role back to the ‘Keepers of the Peace’ in the late 1100s

They also introduced the children to the different types of courts, including adult criminal, youth, and family courts, and discussed the age of criminal responsibility in England (10 years old). A particularly engaging part of the discussion focused on the risks and responsibilities of digital behaviour, including how apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat store data and how a digital footprint can have long-term consequences. The children learned that even messages believed to be private can be accessed by the police or government if necessary.

The pupils explored what happens when someone breaks the law, from arrest and interview, through to appearing in court, and then participated in a group exercise that brought these lessons to life.

In a scenario called “Granny’s Handbag”, pupils acted out the aftermath of a theft on a bus. They examined the stolen handbag’s contents to discuss how the crime affected the victim and to assess its severity. Items like glasses (essential for vision), a library book (potential fines), a gas bill (with personal details), and house keys (now compromised) prompted thoughtful conversation about how impact and intent shape the consequences of a crime.

Finally, the children had the opportunity to ask questions, delving deeper into real-life sentencing, how decisions are made, and what it’s like to serve as a magistrate.

It was a hugely informative session that not only broadened pupils’ understanding of the legal system but also encouraged them to think about fairness, responsibility, and the importance of making wise choices, both online and in everyday life.

A sincere thank you to our visiting magistrates for delivering such an inspiring and eye-opening session.