The most senior judge in England and Wales announced plans to build closer ties between schools and the justice system during a trip to Suffolk.

Lord Chief Justice, Ian Burnett, whose official title is Lord Burnett of Maldon, launched the initiative while visiting Claydon High School near Ipswich today.

Lord Burnett wants to give more schools a chance to hear from a judge about their work.

A new online resource is also being launched with materials to help teachers educate pupils about the judiciary system and the rule of law.

Speaking at Claydon, Lord Burnett said: “Every day, many thousands of judges make decisions which affect people’s lives, and their livelihoods. But most people have little idea of what goes on unless they find themselves in the system.

“I want to make it easier for schools to help teach pupils about the justice system, and how it really works – I want to invite students to talk to us about our work.

“We already know that having a discussion with a real judge is very popular with school students.

“I want to make this opportunity more widely available to schools by asking them to consider inviting judges to visit and give them access to other resources that support their curriculum, and their careers conversations with students.

“There are judges from all walks of life and at many various levels in courts and tribunals. I also want to send the message to all students, from whatever background, they could be the lawyers and judges of the future.”

Lord Burnett was joined on his visit to Claydon High School by His Honour Judge Rupert Overbury, who sits at Ipswich Crown Court.

Headteacher Maéve Taylor said she was delighted to welcomed the two judges.

She added: “Lord Burnett and Judge Overbury spoke to students from Years 7 to 10 about career pathways within the judicial system and how to be successful in these.

“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn about our court system from two distinguished speakers.

“Both judges answered questions from students which ranged from gender equality and diversity to Brexit, wigs and gowns.”

Schools wishing to ask for a judge to speak to students can do so by going to www.judiciary.uk or emailing schools@judiciary.uk