The students, who are studying Criminology, Law, and Psychology, compared the Netherlands’ legal system to the UK’s, focusing on why prostitution and cannabis are criminalised in the UK but not in the Netherlands.
They also studied Amsterdam’s urban landscape and police presence, analysing if the environment’s design and high police visibility contributed to its low crime rates.
Sightseeing excursions included a canal cruise along Amsterdam’s canal system, a tour through the Red Light District, and a visit to the Body Worlds Museum.
Lyndzay Wetherill, lecturer in Science and Social Science at Selby College, said: “The Amsterdam trip allowed the students to experience a whole different perspective on why crimes that are illegal in the UK are decriminalised and socially accepted in the Netherlands.
“This has linked all our curriculum units together, broadened the students’ perspectives, and provided them with a fantastic learning opportunity outside of the classroom that can be utilised in future applications for further study or employment.”
During their visit to Body Worlds Museum, A Level Psychology students explored human anatomy, focusing on the brain and nervous system – which links to their Biopsychology unit.
A Level Psychology student, Ami Chadwick, said: “The Body Worlds Museum was my favourite part of the trip – observing all the layers and details inside the body was especially fascinating, as we learn about the connection between the mind and body in psychology.”
More information about Selby College is available at https://www.heartofyorkshire.ac.uk/selby-college
