A group of talented students from Swindon have once again emerged victorious in a prestigious nationwide legal competition, securing the regional title for the second year in a row.
Competing in the Young Citizens Mock Trial event, Abbey Park students showcased their courtroom prowess at Swindon Magistrates’ Court, demonstrating their advocacy skills and legal understanding against other local schools.
The Mock Trials initiative, run by Young Citizens since 1991, is designed to provide secondary school students with first-hand experience of the legal system. Participants take on various courtroom roles—defence and prosecution lawyers, magistrates, witnesses, and court ushers—engaging in realistic trials that help them develop confidence, teamwork, and analytical thinking.
Abbey Park’s team faced three other schools in a fiercely contested event, with the students judged across multiple categories. Their hard work and preparation paid off, earning them a string of accolades, including:
- Overall Competition Winners
- Best Defence Team – Lilly, Harry, Holly, Nicola, Lena
- Best Prosecution Lawyer – Joint winners Mia and Emmy
- Best Defence Lawyer – Lily
Mia, one of the Best Prosecution Lawyer winners, reflected on the experience: “I’ve really enjoyed participating in the mock trials. It has been an incredible experience that allowed me to see and understand what goes on inside a courtroom. The opportunity to become a lawyer, prepare arguments, and think on my feet during cross-examinations has not only boosted my confidence in public speaking but has also given me invaluable insight into the legal world.”
Oakley, who took on the role of a witness, said: “Mock trials have been a fantastic experience, allowing us to collaborate, develop our arguments, and engage with the legal system in a truly hands-on way. It has also given me a much better understanding of the different careers within Law, from magistrates to probation officers.”
Lily, who stepped into the role of Defence Lawyer just a few sessions before the competition, shared her thoughts: “I’ve really enjoyed being part of the mock trials, even though it was a short time. It’s been great for my confidence, and I love the challenge of stepping into a lawyer’s shoes.”
The team, comprised of Year 9 students Mia, Harry, Joshua, Thomas, Emmy, Holly, Toby, Tyler, Nicola, Lily, Oakley, Lena, and William, was expertly led by their English and Media teacher, Kayla Verlander-Simmonds.
With the regional title secured, Abbey Park now looks ahead to the national heats. Last year’s finals took place at Croydon Magistrates’ Court, where top teams from across the country—both state and independent schools—competed for the national title. The location for this year’s event is yet to be confirmed, but if history is anything to go by, Abbey Park will certainly be a force to reckon with once again.
