Forest students Aspire to become Elite in the Courtroom

For the second year running, The Forest school has been represented by a team of aspiring legal eagles. Ten boys from Years 8 and 9 competed against 7 other teams from the local area and placed third overall. All of the roles were taken by the boys including Lawyers, witnesses and magistrates - with some of the boys taking two roles each. 

There were two rounds. One where the boys defended and one where they prosecuted. Although we did not win our cases the boys showed all the skills that they will need in the future. During their preparation for their roles they showed dedication and their maturity should be commended. Their skills were recognised by the court officials and organisers who were very complimentary about the boys. We also had parents with up who were impressed at the way in which their sons conducted themselves in such a high pressure environment. 

As I said last year, as their teacher I have been blown away by their skills and dedication. In their preparation they had to read through complex case notes and look at how the legal system works. Then they had to write, and learn, speeches, prepare for difficult examinations in chief and cross examinations, learn witness statements and understand how to listen to the evidence in order to come to a decision as to whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. 

Thank you to all of the boys - we are very proud of how you have shown that The Forest is a school to be reckoned with. The epitome of our motto “Aspire to become Elite”

Mrs Westland – English

Here’s what the boys said about their experience…

Tomasz Barbizon Year 9

In my opinion, the best part of the experience was the sense of teamwork, even though we weren’t working together we supported each other with our own roles. The courthouse also looked incredible from the outside. Inside, the stone carvings and the courts themselves looked elegant and official.

Ranveer Singh Year 9

As we stood in the court as a team we tried our best in preparing ourselves for what was ahead of us. We faced 2 different schools, prosecuting and defending both were pretty competitive and our team gave it their best shot.  It was fun answering the questions being asked by the other schools.  Personally, it was a real experience and opportunity I would not want to miss; I enjoyed it very much.  When I stood in front of everyone in the court I felt a bit nervous but with my team in there with me it gave me courage. Our teacher, Mrs Westland, also really helped us to prepare, thank you, Mrs Westland.