Humanities

Law and Order

Last week the Year 8s enjoyed a visit the courts as part of their Humanities Civics and Citizenship course. The excursion was hosted by the Francis Burt Law Education Program through the Law Society of WA.

The students walked over to the Old Court House Law Museum in the Supreme Court Gardens – a place they regularly pass on their way to various activities in our city campus setting. Many students already knew that this was the oldest building in the city of Perth - constructed in 1836 - but this was the first time most had been inside to see the exhibits. 

The museum’s historic courtroom was used as the setting for a Mock Trial based on the case of 15-year-old John Gaven that was heard in the building back in 1844. Students dressed in court attire and played different roles including judge, juror, witness, court staff and prosecution and defence counsel. Although the real John Gaven was convicted and executed for murder, the accused in our mock trials walked away. 

The students were also taken to Court Room 1 in the Supreme Court where they asked questions about the symbolism and courtroom set up. Then, they walked to the Magistrate’s Court where they sat and watched a real court proceeding. Some of the hearings that the classes saw that day included the sentencing of a man for an offence of assault occasioning bodily harm, a sentencing for stealing alcohol, and a bail application. 

Experiencing the seriousness of a real court hearing was an eye-opening experience. It was great to hear the students excitedly swapping stories and talking with interest about the experience throughout the rest of the day. 

Ken Maddess

Head of Humanities