Rule of Law

Countries that observe 'the rule of law' hold it as a principle that everyone is equal before the law. The actions of governments or rulers can be challenged in court; in a fair society no-one is above the law. 

The rule of law is basically what keeps our society together and what helps us live a happy life. 

KS1

This week in KS1, we explored the British Value of the Rule of Law. Children learnt the difference between rules and laws, why they are important, and how they help to keep us safe, happy and treat everyone fairly. We discussed the rules we have at school, home and in sporting activities and why these are important. We also spoke about consequences that might happen if rules are broken. 

We finished the afternoon by creating our own rules for our paper chain challenge because Ben Hope challenged Ben Nevis to compete in which class could make the longest paper chain. 

 

Pupil Voice 

Evie - Ready is a rule in school and it means show the teacher you are ready to learn. 

Ava-May - Always stop and look left and right before you cross a road is a rule to keep you safe. 

Avisha - My house rule is if you make a mess you have to clean it up. 

Thomas - A rule in our house is no swearing. 

Yasin - We can have a consequence that if you break a rule your team lose 5 paper chains. 

Everest

Everest Class took part in an exciting mock court case as part of their learning about the Rule of Law and British Values. The classroom was transformed into a courtroom as the children investigated the mystery of the Missing Biscuit.

Pupils enthusiastically took on a variety of important roles, including the judge, defence and prosecution lawyers, witnesses, jury members and the defendant. Throughout the trial, they presented evidence, questioned witnesses and delivered persuasive arguments while learning about how the justice system works.

The children also learnt about the importance of taking the oath, listening carefully to different viewpoints and making fair decisions based on the evidence presented. After careful deliberation, the jury reached a unanimous verdict, finding the defendant guilty!

The activity was a fantastic way to bring learning to life, helping pupils develop their confidence, communication, teamwork and critical thinking skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the Rule of Law and how justice is served.

Pupil Voice:

Charlie 'It was good fun, it was better to learn about it pretending.'

Parker 'I learnt about a jury and how they make a decision, it was interesting.'

UKS2

In UKS2, we’ve been looking at how a bill actually becomes a law. To see the process in action, we ran our own classroom simulation, taking on the roles of lawmakers to draft, debate, and vote on our own made-up laws. It was a great, hands-on way to see how democratic systems work and just how much debate and teamwork it takes to get a law passed.

Pupil voice:

I couldn’t believe how long it took for a law to pass. - Madison

It was interesting to see how the process for a law being created. - Nicol