Law Society supports legal literacy initiative for younger generation
The Law Society is supporting education charity Young Citizens’ programme the Big Legal Lesson to introduce the law and justice system to children and young people across England and Wales.
Taking place throughout February 2025, the Big Legal Lesson provides teachers with free resources such as worksheets and case studies to engage pupils in conversations about democracy and the legal justice system.
The attorney general, Lord Richard Hermer, has commended the work of Young Citizens and called on schools to deliver robust citizenship education in his annual speech on the rule of law last year.
Richard Atkinson, president of the Law Society of England and Wales said: “The Big Legal Lesson helps pupils and children of all ages to understand how the justice system works and how it affects them.
“Encouraging young learners to understand their legal rights and responsibilities is extremely important, as it allows them to be active citizens of their community and have the power to make their own informed decisions.
“The Law Society is proud to support the Big Legal Lesson, which continues to inspire young people, teachers and legal professionals. We must ensure that young people are active and engaged with the law throughout their lives.”
Ashley Hodges, chief executive of Young Citizens said: “At Young Citizens, we believe legal literacy supports thriving democracies, community cohesion and active citizenship. All children and young people should learn about their rights, responsibilities and the rule of law in the classroom - it shouldn't be left to chance.
“With the support of Mishcon de Reya and the Law Society, we know the sixth edition of the Big Legal Lesson will help educators introduce the law and concepts of justice to many more pupils this year.”
Notes to editors
The Big Legal Lesson provides teachers with the tools they need to deliver lessons about law into their classrooms for primary and secondary school students.
Over 97% of teachers either agreed or strongly agreed that young learners had a better understanding of the rule of law and how it applies to their lives, after delivering the lessons.
For further information about the Big Legal Lesson or further comment, contact Oliver Walkden on 020 7566 4141.
About Young Citizens
Young Citizens is a UK based charity encouraging young people to explore citizenship education.
Established in 1989, it delivers skills, knowledge and enrichment to over half a million children each year through a dynamic range topical classroom resources and immersive learning experiences.
Their team of education experts work to equip young minds with the confidence to shape both local communities and powerful systems. They do this by encouraging teachers, professionals and policy makers to transfer their expertise to the people who need it most, making complex current affairs accessible to all.
About the Law Society
The Law Society is the independent professional body that works globally to support and represent solicitors, promoting the highest professional standards, the public interest and the rule of law.
Press office contact: Kelis Edwards | 020 3657 0144