DOZENS of ‘legal eagles’ at a South Lakeland school picked up certificates for completing a ground-breaking Lawyers in Schools programme.

Citizenship lessons at Kirkbie Kendal School have been brought to life throughout the year by visiting lawyers who led discussions on youth justice, human rights, employment and police powers.

The scheme, a partnership by South Lakeland District Council and Cumbria County Council, has delivered elements of the National Curriculum subject to 38 pupils in Year 10, broadening their awareness and understanding of the law and promoting possible careers.

Kirkbie Kendal School headteacher Phil Hyman said: “This is a fabulous learning experience for all the students involved.

“The volunteering lawyers said how much they enjoyed the teaching experience and sharing their enthusiasm for law with such excellent students.

“I hope that we will be able to continue such a worthwhile project. Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved, particularly the co-ordination of lawyer Nicola Hartley and Carla Barker, head of life skills.”

Coun Clare Feeney-Johnson, who attended the event, added: “This really has been a very successful scheme and the students now have a good and clear understanding of the law, which I think will help them to decide if they wish to pursue this type of career.

“All the volunteer lawyers that have taken part really have been made to feel very welcome and have also enjoyed being able to connect with young people in such a positive way.”

The Lawyers in Schools programme has been running since October 2011.

There are only four other such schemes across the UK.