A COMPETITION has been launched to select six students to take part in a unique learning experience at Bournemouth Crown Court.

Year 12 students who attend a Dorset or BCP educational establishment and are considering a career connected to the law are invited to apply for the opportunity.

This could include ambitions to work in the police, National Probation Service and social service or as a barrister, solicitor or journalist.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend Bournemouth Crown Court for two days, where they will have the opportunity to meet the judges, watch court hearings and gain an insight into the operation of the criminal justice system.

Books will also be awarded as prizes to some of the applicants.

Visit dates will be arranged following the selection of the competition winners. The days will take place before the usual date for the submission of further education applications.

Applications must be sent to legalexperience@justice.gov.uk by 8pm on February 28, 2022, and include a description up to 150 words of their interest in the law and an essay of up to 1,000 words discussing one of the following topics: should citizens ever be entitled to break the law, prison is not an effective punishment, or, should the law permit assisted suicide in appropriate cases.

The judges will look for a well-argued essay demonstrating enthusiasm, creativity and independent thinking.

The essay should be typed in size 14 Arial font and attached to an email with the subject heading: Legal Experience - with your name.

The email should include the applicant's name, the sixth form or college they attend their email address.

Any questions should be sent to His Honour Judge Brian Forster QC at legalexperience@justice.gov.uk