Pupils hunt for head's 'murderer'

More than 200 students will take part in the 'murder hunt'

A Teesside headteacher is to be 'murdered' in the name of further education.

Bill Tevendale, head of Thornaby Community School, near Stockton-on-Tees knows the exact time and place of his grisly demise.

And two fellow teachers who are prime suspects are already known in advance.

It will be the task of 200 students to decide whether deputy head Maureen Henry or humanities teacher Melanie Teasdale are the guilty party.

This scenario is part of a practical crime scene science exercise, organised by the school and the University of Teesside.

The innovative partnership is aimed at introducing year nine pupils to the world of crime scene investigation, through the simulated murder of their own headteacher, who will be found dead in his officer on 1 July.

My murder is all for the good of the job and part of the educational process

Bill Tevendale, headteacher

By working through a series of clues the students will expose the culprit.

Julie Mennell from the university's school of science & technology, said: "Through this exercise students can learn more about the application of science to crime scene investigation and discover the career opportunities open to them in this field.

"The use of the mock scene captures the students' imagination and serves as a very useful learning tool.

"We hope that as a result of the day students will have a much better understanding of what really is involved in solving crimes."

'Real-life investigation'

Murder 'victim' Bill Tevendale said: "My 'murder' is all for the good of the job and part of the educational process!

"As long as it's only pretend, I do genuinely get on well with the two suspects!

"I'm delighted that our pupils have this unique chance to take part in a real-life investigation.

"They would normally only see such a simulation on television, it's a wonderful opportunity."

The University of Teesside has the only UK course designed for students wishing to become crime scene investigators.

It has its own 16-room crime scene house laboratory where students can develop essential evidence recovery and recording skills.