Sixth Form Psychology students enjoyed an exciting and immersive Forensic Psychology Workshop led by Hayley Scott, founder of The Forensic Experience. With 12 years’ service in the Metropolitan Police, Hayley brought a wealth of real-world expertise, offering students a rare insight into forensic investigation and professional practice.
The workshop closely aligned with the A Level Psychology specification, exploring key topics such as ethics, offender profiling, and the application of psychological theory within the criminal justice system. Rather than simply learning about these concepts, students were able to experience them first-hand through a series of highly engaging, practical activities.
Students took part in fingerprint lifting, DNA analysis, and worked collaboratively to solve a crime using evidence from a realistic crime scene. A lifelike mannequin – used to recreate forensic scenarios – added to the authenticity of the experience, helping to bring theory vividly to life.
One student described the workshop as “honestly one of the most realistic and memorable things I’ve done in school,” adding that “the level of detail was insane.” They particularly valued the opportunity to “actually get to solve a crime,” explaining that the hands-on approach made the day feel “real and properly immersive.”
Another highlight was the chance to speak directly with a real Crime Scene Investigator. As the student reflected, “It was genuinely epic to talk to a CSI in real life, not just see a slightly inaccurate version on a TV screen.”
The workshop proved both inspiring and thought-provoking, with one student leaving “thinking about Psychology even more seriously as the right path for me.” We are extremely grateful to Hayley for delivering such a memorable and impactful experience.
