Order in the Court! Learning About the Rule of Law

This afternoon, we continued our recent focus on British Values by exploring the important theme of the Rule of Law. In previous assemblies, we have discussed mutual respect and democracy and this week’s assembly encouraged children to think about why laws exist and why they matter.

We began by discussing the purpose of laws and it was wonderful to hear the children’s thoughtful responses. They explained that laws help to keep people happy, safe and ensure fairness for everyone.

The school was then introduced to Judge Tom (not Judge Judy!) as the whole school became the jury in a fun and engaging courtroom roleplay. Some familiar faces were brought to trial for being ‘rule-breakers’. Laura was accused of stealing after stationery and Chromebooks were ‘discovered’ in her car, Mrs Murray and Emily had apparently been caught fighting in the staffroom and Dan stood accused of criminal damage after dramatically flipping tables, throwing chairs and ‘smashing’ his interactive whiteboard!

Of course, this was all part of the roleplay, but it certainly brought the subject to life. Together, we explored what punishments for these crimes might have looked like in medieval times compared with contemporary Britain. The children discovered that many laws are based on keeping people safe, respectful and fair, much like our own Southill School rules: Ready, Respectful and Safe.

It was a fantastic assembly filled with animated children, sheepish-looking adults and one very judgemental judge!

Rule of Law Assembly