Students studying for Law School got a proper introduction to the life of a criminal lawyer on their visit to the Old Bailey yesterday. The Old Bailey is the UK’s Central Criminal Court, and sees the most serious criminal cases tried within its (rather ornate) walls.

Yesterday was no exception―students just about managed to squeeze into the crowded courtroom where the trial of Ismael Watson was being heard. Watson is charged with a terrorist-related offence, having been caught by the Turkish authorities whilst attempting to travel to join the conflict in Syria. There were also some fairly gruesome murder cases for students to choose from, but they opted instead to admire the impressive architecture of the building. Many students remarked on how long and laborious the courtroom process seemed to be, and several wondered whether they’d be able to handle the rather demoralising subject matter of criminal law. Overall, students agreed that it had been an eye-opening experience!

Back in Oxford, some of our students opted to go on the infamous Ghost Tour. Illustrated with props and illusions, the students were guided by Bill Spectre, the haunting host, who entertained and horrified them in equal measure. One story, in particular, that gave our students goosebumps, was the tale of Charles I at Christ Church college – it is rumoured that the former king has often been observed around the college grounds, both with and without his head. So be warned, it appears that many scare-some truths lie beneath the city of dreaming spires!