How programs are developed

College staff working on program material

Each year the College works with the Heads of Jurisdiction, the Syllabus Advisory Committee and Courts' Professional Development Committees to develop the education program for the following year. The College also take account of upcoming changes and new legisation.

The College has established a model whereby each program uses a judicial steering committee to determine content and preferred presenters. A common understanding has been adopted by the steering committees when planning and developing the content and format of College programs.

It is also important that all College judicial education programs and professional development opportunities are engaging and effective, and that they apply adult learning principles utilising a multi-faceted approach.

An integrated three-dimensional approach recognises the complexity of the judicial role. All three elements are required to judge effectively. When planning new programs consideration is given to integrating three dimensions:

• Substantive content (the law)
• Skills (the craft of judging)
• An understanding of the context (relevant social, cultural and human rights aspects).

The 2 minute video below shows a number of judicial officers explaining  valuable insights gained from the Court Craft program. Both the 360 degree feedback and the session with professional actors allow judicial officers to enhance their courtroom skills. 

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