Students thinking outside the box on criminology course with a difference

CRIMINOLOGY LECTURERS have put potential students to the test with a specially designed live escape game.

The games challenge teams to solve a series of puzzles in order to find their way out of a locked room in under an hour and have become popular around the globe.

But this one – designed by the team behind Code-X at Leeds Dock – was created exclusively for sixth formers taking part in Leeds Trinity University’s summer programme.

Criminology programme coordinator Dr Sarah Barnes said: “It’s about good communication skills, team working, appreciating other people’s skills – things you really need if you get a job in the police or probation service.

“Both sets of students who have done it absolutely loved it. The guys on the second day didn’t actually manage to get out, but they still said it was a lot of fun.”

The challenge was based around a murder mystery scenario, with participants gathering clues for the evidence board as they worked together to find out the killer’s identity. It was designed by lecturers on the criminology course. The sessions were part of the university’s work with students who are thinking of going on to higher education.

Dr Barnes said: “It’s about giving them an opportunity to see what we offer at Leeds Trinity University, as well as what student life is like.”

The students take part in activities with different departments, stay in Horsforth and are invited to social events.