A-Level Psychology students are just about to begin the topic of Forensic Psychology – a topic which has proved particularly popular with students in the past – and provides an insight into Criminology, Law, and the Justice System. The course covers the aims of custodial sentencing and the psychological effects of imprisonment. To inform their understanding Dr Jolly took her class to visit Shepton Mallet prison last week, which closed in 2013 and is no longer a working prison. Students had a guided tour from a former prison officer, who showed them the wings and the disused execution chamber, as well as explaining different rehabilitation programmes he had worked on as part of offender management; students will also be examined on some of these programmes, including anger management and restorative justice. Pupils also learnt about the history of the prison and historical methods of punishment, and experienced being in the cells, to give them insight into the conditions prisoners experience.
It was a fascinating and insightful visit for all involved; thanks go to Dr Jolly for organising the visit.
