Criminology Week
Posted on 29th January 2025
Criminology week seminar and workshops at Hereford Sixth Form College's Performing Arts Centre
First- and second-year criminology students participated in an insightful week of workshops and seminars organized by Nicky Taylor, Head of Criminology, alongside Kate Cox-Tennant, Teacher of Criminology. The week offered students a unique opportunity to gain real-world insights into various aspects of criminology from seasoned professionals.
The week of events kicked off at the Courtyard Theatre, utilizing its expansive 400-seat auditorium to accommodate the large student body. Throughout the day, five distinguished speakers delivered presentations, each followed by a Q&A session. This interactive format allowed students to engage directly with experts while Nicky guided discussions that tied key points to exam-relevant content.
The expertise of professionals who volunteered their time to share their knowledge was a cornerstone of the event. Ron Pearce, a former Chief Inspector, and Ahmed Chaudry, a current police officer, explored the roles and responsibilities within the police force. Ahmed also hosted an information booth in the foyer, offering students valuable guidance on how to pursue careers in law enforcement.
Pauline Strong, a former police officer, delivered an insightful presentation on the evolving role of women in policing and addressed critical issues related to domestic abuse. Her talk emphasized the changing dynamics within law enforcement and society.
Eliza Harris, the Principal Forensic Psychologist for the Parole Board, offered an engaging discussion on the psychological aspects of parole. Her expertise provided students with a thorough understanding of how psychological evaluations influence parole decisions.
Demonstration on prison cell size
Dave X, a reformed violent offender, shared his compelling personal journey of rehabilitation. He discussed criminological theories that might explain the root causes of his criminal behaviour, giving students a rare and impactful perspective on crime and rehabilitation.
Ivan Powell, a retired police officer, recounted his experiences with the notorious Dennehey case, providing a firsthand look at high-profile criminal investigations. Donna Hutcherson, a current police inspector, complemented this by discussing the pressing issue of county lines drug trafficking, adding depth to students’ understanding of contemporary criminal challenges.
In addition to the speaker sessions, Nicky and Kate conducted interactive learning sessions for all first- and second-year criminology students. These sessions were designed to enhance exam preparation and build practical criminology skills. Topics include case analysis, where students learned how to understand and apply case studies effectively in exams; forensic science activities, such as fingerprinting, microscope analysis, and creating simulated wound injuries using stage makeup; and exam strategies, offering practical advice on how to improve grades, avoid common pitfalls, and maximize performance.
Guest speakers with criminology department