We currently have 14 students currently taking part in the BPP University Law School, Law Ambassador Programme to support their interest in a future career in law. As part of this programme students were able to apply to take part in a mock trial which took place on 2 March. The trial would normally take place in a professional courtroom but due to covid restrictions, this year’s event took place in the main hall of our college. Organised by Mrs Thomson, Student Destination Manager (World of Work), Bethan Oates from BPP University Law School came to college to run the opportunity for our students and students from Allerton Grange School Sixth Form.
The students involved participated in legal workshops, analysing trial evidence and composition of cross-examination. They also had the opportunity to take on the role of judge, jury, defendant, barrister, or witness during the mock trial.
One of the students who took part was year 12 student Amina Benhammouda, who aspires to pursue a legally focussed career in the future. She found the session extremely helpful allowing her to gain further confidence in her public speaking skills. It also gave her a great perspective of the proceedings of a trail and encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone.
“The best thing about the mock trial was that we were able to practice our public speaking skills without the burden of representing a real defendant. Also, it was enjoyable to work with students from Abbey Grange sixth form and get an insight into their passions regarding law.”
Amina Benhammouda, year 12 student.“The mock trial event is always a popular activity that students want to get involved with. Law is a tough but rewarding industry which offers a range of work opportunities. By offering this workshop to our students we really hope it gives them a flavour of what they might want to pursue in the future.”
Mrs Thomson, Student Destination Manager at Elliott Hudson College.