Pupil Madiha described it as an ‘incredible experience’ taking part in the Year 9 Magistrates Competition.
Headteacher Mrs McGinty took a group to Preston Crown Court where they had to compete against six others schools and in front of Magistrates and a Crown Court Judge.
Mrs McGinty said: “While we did not win, the group were amazing and I was really proud of them.
“They held their nerve and supported each other really well. They have all turned up every Friday after school since December without fail and have worked so hard. What a wonderful group of pupils.”
Madiha was a defence lawyer on the day and said: “I applied for this competition because I was in two minds when it came to choosing my options – the medicine or law route.
“I always want to challenge in different situations. I also like the idea of standing up in front of everyone, thinking on my feet and working with my partner to prove the innocence of a person. This was an incredible experience to be a part of. The competition was a remarkable opportunity.”
“It involved preparing for the trial, understanding the law in detail, constructing arguments and predicting the other team’s case. Presenting in front of the magistrates, responding to their questions and staying composed in a courtroom environment made the experience feel amazing and unique. One of the most important things I learnt was the importance of communication and listening.”
“Having a strong case is an important thing but also presenting it persuasively, under stress, is an even bigger challenge. This experience made me appreciate the hard work, preparation and quick thinking that people in law must show every day. We may not have won but we put in so much effort and tried our best. Most of all, we had fun and it was an amazing bonding experience. It has made me think about a career in law now.”
“A huge thank you to Mrs McGinty for all her hard work to make it the best possible experience for us.”
Aaminah said: “My role was a legal advisor and it was a really good experience and most of all, it was a fun. I learnt a lot about team work, working together on a case and making a strong case. I would like a career in law. It’s the Bar Mock Trial next year and now I can’t wait for that.”
Halima added: “I had never done public speaking before and I was nervous beforehand but I had a great time and it’s helped boost my confidence.”
