CSI is coming to Cradley Heath as a school launches a new qualification in forensic science.

Ormiston Forge Academy has taken inspiration from the popular series Crime Scene Investigation to offer a course introducing students to criminal psychology, police and forensic procedures.

The BTEC in Forensic Science will be available to sixth formers at the Wrights Lane school from September.

Lessons will take place in specialist science laboratories and will feature demonstrations and practical tasks as well as applied theory.

The course will see students visit working laboratories and take part in crimes scene field trips.

Director of Science Maria Mincher said: “This is a subject that provides real-world skills and opportunities for work including blood splatter technicians, crime scene investigators, DNA analysts and many other forensic roles.

“It's important for our students to know they are able to achieve anything they want, even careers they may only have had experience of on American TV shows."

Principal Andrew Burns added, "This is another example of Forge Academy being at the cusp of innovative learning and teaching.”

Students will learn about genetics, forensic fire analysis, human physiology, forensic photography, health and safety, laboratory management, criminology, psychology, chemistry and forensic analysis techniques.

The BTEC is the equivalent of one A level.