Sixth formers gained a firsthand look at punishment and law by attending the Old Bailey.

Maltings Academy sociology pupils took a trip to the Old Bailey High Court in London and sat in on a child abuse trial while a doctor was giving their account.

The pupils sat through part of a graphic murder trial.

Teacher Kerrie Moss said: “We had been looking in class at how people are punished in society.

“We can teach so much in the class room, but sitting in a courtroom at the Old Bailey really puts the lessons into perspective for them.

“They were searched on their way in which made them appreciate quite how serious the whole process is.

“Their previous experience was based purely on what they see on television.

“This was real life with people accused of real crimes and real victims.”