STAFF and students at Cirencester College were reduced to tears when they heard stories about life behind bars from former prisoners at conference at the college.

Three reformed prisoners who have served between four and 20 years in prison, spoke at the Life Behind Bars conference, which was attended by Law and Psychology students.

The three, who have committed crimes such as theft burglary and murder, talked about their crimes, prison life and the psychological effects of labelling.

Law lecturer at the college Dan Nield said the lecture which took place at the end of last month has had a lasting impact on students and staff.

He said: “The students who attended this event were truly touched by the reformed prisoners’ stories. Some staff and students were moved to tears by what they had heard and felt the conference really benefitted their learning by bringing to life what they learn in the classroom.”

“The conference was interactive giving students the chance to ask questions, discuss ideas and develop opinions about the effectiveness of the penal system.”

As part of the conference there was also discussions about punishment, retribution and rehabilitation and if reformed prisoners felt that prison had assisted their own rehabilitation.

The day focussed on the questions 'does prison work?' and 'what happens when prisoners are released back into society?' which directly relates to both Law and Psychology courses.

A student who attended the conference said: “This was an extremely useful day which I found both moving and interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would like to thank all the speakers for sharing their experiences with us.”

The lecture was organised as part of Cirencester College Sixth Form College’s Enrichment programme.

If you would like to know more about Psychology or Law at Cirencester Sixth Form College contact kate.lawson@cirencester.ac.uk or daniel.nield@cirencester.a.uk.