Mock trial helps Eden Boys’ School pupils reach verdict on legal careers

A group of pupils from Eden Boys’ School, Bolton took on courtroom roles in a mock trial to gain a deeper understanding of careers in the legal profession.

The Year 8 pupils spent time preparing themselves for a variety of roles in the trial of fictional character Terry Barratt who was accused of common assault.

Every member of the class had a role to play in the mock trial, from usher and Chairman of the Court, to prosecutor and defence solicitor.

The mock trial, held at Bolton University, was led by retired magistrate Mike Phillips.

Through the activity, pupils discovered how a real trial runs and the many individuals involved. They considered the evidence available to them before reaching their guilty verdict.

Year 8 pupil Yusuf Umarji commented:

“There were many things I learnt about the role of magistrates, including how they volunteer their service and want the best for their community. It was a very valuable experience because I am considering a career in law in the future.”

Wahida Zaeem, Assistant Director Of Learning (Humanities), said:

“We’re so grateful to Bolton University and to Mike Phillips for his time giving our pupils this experience. We have a number of pupils who are interested in following a legal career and opportunities such as this really help to demystify the whole process and demonstrate how there is more than one career pathway within the area of law.

“For our pupils, it was undoubtedly aspirational, and for me it was invaluable when delivering lessons about the UK justice system.”

Added By: Star Academies | Date Added: 25th Jul 2018 | Posted In: