Year 12 Sociology students explored real-world law and society during a court workshop and sociological observation in London.

On Friday the 2nd of May, our Year Sociology 12 students had the fantastic opportunity to deepen their understanding of the legal system with a court workshop at the prestigious Royal Courts of Justice. The visit brought classroom learning to life as students explored the fundamental differences between civil and criminal law, as well as the structure and purpose of the courts in England and Wales.

During the workshop, students engaged with real-life cases that have made legal history, including the famous ruling that McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes are cakes, not biscuits, and the high-profile Coleen Rooney vs. Rebekah Vardy libel case. Excitement peaked when we discovered that our visit coincided with Prince Harry’s verdict on whether he could retain his security arrangements after stepping back from royal duties—making the experience all the more memorable.

One of the highlights of the day was a mock trial where students took on the roles of barristers, witnesses, and jurors in a genuine past case. They impressed us all with their confidence, thoughtful questioning, and careful deliberation before delivering their verdict. They were eager to compare their outcome with the real-life decision, sparking meaningful conversations about justice and the legal process.

After our time in court, we visited Borough Market, where students not only enjoyed a wide variety of delicious foods but also conducted a sociological observation. As part of their current work on their theory and methods topic, they observed how people interact in public spaces, paying particular attention to social norms, gender dynamics, and behaviour differences between individuals and groups.

It was a day packed with learning, critical thinking, and real-world application of both legal and sociological concepts. The students were fantastic ambassadors for our school—engaged, respectful, and intellectually curious throughout. Well done, Year 12!

Miss Ferguson