Who first brought law and order to Britain? - Teacher's Notes

In an educational exploration of the historical progression of 'crime and punishment' in Britain, teachers are equipped with resources to guide pupils through a transformative period in legal history. The lesson begins with the use of a carefully selected internet video that provides a concise overview of the evolution of law enforcement and judicial practices, starting from just before the Norman Conquest and extending to the reign of Henry II. This visual aid is intended to be viewed twice by the pupils, ensuring they fully absorb the content.

Following the video, the students are encouraged to engage more deeply with the material by identifying and listing the 10 most interesting facts they discovered. This could be turned into an interactive quiz, allowing pupils to challenge one another's knowledge and retention of the historical facts. To further enhance their understanding of the severity of historical punishments, another video is introduced, showcasing the more barbaric aspects of the era's justice system. Through discussion, pupils are prompted to reflect on the fairness of these practices and the lack of opportunities for victims to defend themselves. These activities aim to stimulate thought and conversation about the significant changes in 'crime and punishment' over time and to question who was responsible for establishing the foundations of law and order in Britain.