Ahead of the start of the new academic year this week, a Boston secondary school hosted a CSI experience for incoming Year Seven pupils.

The hands-on workshop was delivered at Boston Grammar School by the Lincolnshire-based Pulse CSI.

During the morning, children were introduced to a range of forensic techniques and learned about how crime scene investigators operate.

In the afternoon, the pupils put their newly acquired skills into practice. Working together in teams, they examined a mock crime scene, considered the evidence and shared ideas, as they attempted to piece together what had happened and identify the culprit.

Among those who took part in the CSI experience at Boston Grammar School.

placeholder image — Among those who took part in the CSI experience at Boston Grammar School.

Jacqui Thompson, founder of Pulse CSI, said: “Watching the pupils really demonstrated why CSI works so well as a transition activity.

“They become completely absorbed in the investigation and almost forget that they are working with people they may only just have met. Very quickly they are talking, sharing ideas, examining evidence and trying to solve the crime together.”

“One of the loveliest things was seeing how the pupils grew in confidence throughout the day,” Jacqui continued. “They were enthusiastic, inquisitive and completely embraced the CSI experience.

“The feedback from the teaching staff was fantastic too, and it was wonderful to hear how positively they felt the pupils had responded to the workshop.”

Scenes from the CSI experience, with teaching staff (right) getting into the spirit of the event (from left, Sarah Brocklesby, Lucy Lyon, and Lillie Manning).

The day also aimed to give pupils the chance to see science in action beyond a traditional classroom environment.

It also provided them with an age-appropriate introduction to the Criminal Justice System, helping them to understand the roles of the police, crime scene investigators, forensic scientists and the courts, and how evidence can progress from the crime scene through to the courtroom.

Jacqui said: “Introducing young people to the Criminal Justice System at this stage in their lives can be incredibly valuable. As they make the transition into secondary school and begin to develop greater independence, it is an important age for understanding choices, consequences and personal responsibility.

“CSI provides a really engaging way of opening up those conversations. At the same time, we can show young people the positive side of the Criminal Justice System and introduce them to the huge range of scientific, forensic, policing and legal careers that they may never previously have considered.”