Most senior judge in England and Wales visits Middlesbrough school to discuss rule of law
The most senior judge in England and Wales has visited Outwood Academy Riverside in Middlesbrough to talk to pupils about the work of judges, the justice system, and the rule of law.
Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill, the Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, visited the secondary school last week (12 June) as part of the Schools Engagement Programme, which aims to provide students with a greater understanding of the judiciary’s work. She was accompanied by Mr Justice Poole, the Family Presiding Judge of the North Eastern circuit, HHJ Mark Thomas, and HHJ Joanne Kidd.
Speaking at the school, the Lady Chief Justice said:
“The rule of law is one of the constitutional pillars that upholds an open and fair society. Our Schools Engagement Programme aims to make it easier for young people to learn about our justice system, which is respected globally, and the fundamental importance of the rule of law to our way of life.
“There are judges from all walks of life serving at every level of our courts and tribunals. For many of them, their path to a career in the law started at school. I want to send a message to all students, from whatever background, that they too could be the lawyers and judges of the future.”
School Principal, Melissa Brant-Smith, said:
“I am both delighted and honoured to welcome the Lady Chief Justice to our school. It is a privilege to host such a distinguished guest, and a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet Baroness Carr in person and engage with her directly. We are truly grateful for her visit and the invaluable insight it offers into the rule of law. I hope this experience will inspire our students and encourage more of them to consider a future career in the judiciary.”
The Lady Chief Justice’s visit comes on the back of work that scores of Diversity and Community Relations Judges (DCRJs) and magistrates (DCRMs) already do in the community. The Lady Chief Justice hopes that this work, often unseen and unsung, will encourage students from all backgrounds to think about a career in the justice system.
The Schools Engagement Programme is backed up by online resources that are available to schools and students on the judiciary's website. These include notes for lessons, fact sheets, and other resources to help schools facilitate learning about the justice system and rule of law.
Schools wishing to invite a judge to speak to students can do so here or by emailing schools@judiciary.co.uk
