Key Stage 5 Visits to Shepton Mallet Prison

Education Behind Bars Programme

Developed by specialists in education and history, the Education Behind Bars Programme offers a unique, immersive learning experience. Aligned with the national curriculum, it engages students with thought-provoking activities that extend learning beyond the classroom.

We provide comprehensive resources for both students and teachers, ensuring the educational impact lasts well beyond the visit. The programme includes 3 core elements: a Guided Tour, an Educational Activity, and Self-Guided Discovery. Each component is expertly delivered by our trained guides and facilitators.

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Educational Activity

The Key Stage 5 activity, Media Portrayal of the Kray Twins, invites students to critically examine how the media influences public perception of crime and criminals.

Focusing on the infamous Kray twins, students will engage in discussions about the “glamorous” portrayal of the Krays as legends, contrasting this image with the reality of their criminal activities.

The activity challenges students to consider the role of media in shaping societal attitudes towards crime, punishment, and rehabilitation. Through group work and critical analysis, students will also draw parallels between the media’s portrayal of the Krays and modern-day depictions of gangs, reflecting on the impact of these portrayals on society’s views and justice.

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Learning Outcomes

This educational activity will consider the case of The Krays, both of whom were imprisoned at Shepton Mallet Prison in 1952. Reflecting upon how the media has portrayed the Krays students are asked to consider the ‘glamourous’ depiction of the Krays as legends verses the actual crimes they were imprisoned for, and what part the media has in altering perception of people and society. The case study asks the students to consider modern day depiction of gangs in the media and to compare.

This activity is suitable for Key Stage 5 & University.

Upon completing this education activity students will be able to:

Debate how the media can influence how people and society think about crime and punishment
Understand the role the media plays in public perception about certain types of crime and the impact of public perception on punishment, reform, and rehabilitation
Consider how the media can misrepresent the nature of crime from the 1960’s and the era of the Krays up to modern day and ‘county lines’.

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Resource Pack

Every student participating in the Education Behind Bars programme receives a comprehensive Education Pack. This pack includes an Educational Activity sheet, an Activity Booklet tailored to their Key Stage, a Site Map to guide their Self-Guided Discovery, and a Certificate of Completion to commemorate their visit.

These resources are designed to extend learning beyond the visit, offering students the tools they need to reflect on their experiences.

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Self-Guided Tours at Shepton Mallet Prison

Visit Itinerary

Your visit is carefully structured to maximise educational value while keeping students engaged throughout the day. The itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive, immersive experience that brings history to life.

Arrival
Guided Tour
Educational Activity
Self-Guided Discovery
Conclusion and Departure
Lunch (Optional)

A standard visit lasts approximately 3 hours, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience that is both engaging and informative. This structure ensures your students leave with a deeper understanding of history and the workings of the penal system. We are also happy to tailor the itinerary to meet your specific needs, including arranging lunch from our onsite café if required.

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