Bradford Grammar School students have seized victory in their heat of the Independent Schools Mock Trial Competition, securing a spot in the national finals.
Led by Young Citizens, the competition provides students with hands-on courtroom experience. For BGS’s 13-member team of Year 11 and 12 pupils, participation meant rigorous preparation and researching criminal cases, honing advocacy skills and legal understanding.
The heat, held at Newcastle Crown Court, saw teams from different schools engage in three intense trials. Each trial demanded astute legal arguments as teams prosecuted and defended cases involving illicit computer access and an illegal protest.
Year 11 pupil, Sulayman B, a late transfer to the team, gave a stellar performance as a devious university media officer. Reflecting on his experience, Sulayman said: “The Mock Trial Competition has been enriching, allowing us to explore the nuances of legal advocacy firsthand. It was thrilling to immerse myself in the character and deliver a compelling performance.”
James Reeson, Head of Classics and leader of the mock trial co-curricular club at Bradford Grammar School, highlighted the competition’s transformative impact: “The Mock Trial Competition offers a unique opportunity to engage with the legal system, and refine essential skills such as public speaking and analytical thinking. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our students excel on such a prestigious platform.”
Despite stiff competition, the BGS team’s resilience shone through, securing victory. Each student received scores based on criteria like clarity, quality of arguments, accuracy and timekeeping.
As the team celebrate its triumph, students carry with them an appreciation for the legal profession and skills gained. The national final is due to take place later this summer where they are poised to uphold BGS’s legacy of excellence.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our students excel on such a prestigious platform.”
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