'The modern judiciary: who they are, what they do and why it matters' is the title of an aptly-timed free online educational course announced today by the Judiciary of England and Wales. The 'massive online open course' developed with King’s College London, aims to explain the workings and purpose of the modern judiciary to young people across the country. 

According to the organisers, the open and accessible course will require a commitment of two to three hours a week for four or five weeks. 'Over this time participants will cover the work of the judiciary, examine judges’ portrayal in the media and learn how to understand judgments.'

It will include a range of interactive content, including quizzes, mini-lectures, articles, case studies and interviews with judges. No previous legal knowledge is required to enrol. 

Lord Burnett, the lord chief justice said, ’It is vitally important that the public understands what a modern judge’s role is so that they can have confidence in the decisions they make. The work of the judiciary is often surrounded by myth based on an outdated view of judges and I hope that this course will be both interesting and informative.'

James Lee, reader in English law at The Dickson Poon School of Law, King’s College London' said: ’We are delighted to be working in partnership with the judiciary on this exciting project, building upon King’s long tradition of engagement with the judiciary and professions. It is an opportunity to promote public understanding of the judge to a wide audience, incorporating a range of perspectives on the law.'