Content Warning: photos contain fake gore in mock crime scene, which is purely fictitious.
Future forensics stars at Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) participated in an exciting ‘Crime Day’ event, designed in association with South West Forensics to help students identify potential career paths and provide practical applications of their theoretical knowledge and skills.
A Level, Criminology, and Uniformed Protective Services students were given the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of criminal investigation, exploring mock crime scenes and applying learnt skills in a hands-on environment.
The event encompassed a variety of activities, including crime scene investigation, forensic techniques, and expert guidance from a guest speaker.
Students meticulously examined a staged crime scene, gathering evidence and analysing clues to piece together the events of the ‘crime’.
Participants learned and applied forensic techniques, such as fingerprint analysis and evidence collection, gaining insights into the crucial role of forensics in solving crimes.
Students wore appropriate garb, learning about the importance of wearing the correct PPE, and how it mitigates potential risks of contamination.
In total, four different workshops provided unique perspectives into crime scene processes, with students observing health and safety issues, identifying and marking physical evidence, and participating in digital evidence and eye-witness statement workshops.
Experienced professionals and educators supported this, including BTC’s very own A Level Criminology and Law course leaders, and a CSI guest speaker, Simon, who led the fingerprint and DNA swabbing workshops.
The day was based around a fictitious scenario devised by A Level Law and Criminology teachers, ensuring the students’ full immersion and engagement during the event.
Karen Crowley, Course Leader, commented,
I am so grateful for South West Forensics support in delivering these specialised workshops to our students. It really enriches their understanding of the theory taught in the classroom and how it transpires to real-life cases and discussions.
I also believe that students who study Criminology and Law saw how the two subjects come together with their similarities and how their differences complement each other well.
Sarah Shaw, Course Leader, said,
It was an incredible day! The students received so much valuable experience and knowledge. It will serve as a great memory and experience for the students to look back on, and I’d like to thank Simon for his part in making it such an engaging and special event.
For more information on future events and BTC’s multitude of educational offerings, please visit www.btc.ac.uk or get in touch with the Information & Advice team by emailing info@btc.ac.uk.
