Talented Future Lawyers? Guilty as Charged!

Congratulations to the WGS team who reached the final of the University of Bradford’s annual Mock Trial Competition.

Year 12 pupils, Lena Plein, Kaitlyn Walsh and Francesca Arrandale acted as prosecution against a defence team from Bradford Grammar. The final was held at the University’s Lady Hale Court – named after the Yorkshire-born former President of the Supreme Court – in front of circuit judge, His Honour Judge Jonathan Rose.

Lena said:

“It was really enjoyable. It surprised me how professional it was and how realistic. There was some pressure because we had the witness statements but we didn’t know what the actors were going to say, so there was a lot of thinking on our feet.”

Kaitlyn added:

“The competition gave us an insight into what it would be like studying law here. It was really helpful in deciding whether law is a route we want to go down. I would definitely recommend it.”

“It was an impossible task to choose between the two teams. They are all exceptionally talented. These are students in Year 12, with no professional training in advocacy. I have every confidence that each one of them will be successful in their career in law.”

Former lawyer, Claire Spencer, teaches Business and Economics at the Grove. She commented:

“Taking part in this competition has boosted the pupils’ confidence massively. Whether they apply to study at university or go straight into jobs, this is something they can put on their personal statements and CVs. It shows they have pushed themselves out of their comfort zones and have had to think on their feet under pressure.”

I am prepared

I am Grovian.