Teens take part in court drama

Photo: Laura Wild

Teens take part in court drama

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The scene at Rochdale Magistrates court today (Saturday 6 March 2010) was slightly different than any other day in court – because those in charge of the trial were teenagers!

A mock trial took place in court room one, as part of a nationwide scheme from the Citizenship Foundation to get young people involved with learning about the law.

A lot of hard work has been put in over the past few months from the schools taking part: Siddal Moor Sports College, Springhill High School and St Ambrose Barlow RC High School, Swinton.

Pupils from years 8 and 9 took part in various mock trials, in which 13 roles were played, including: judges, defence, prosecution, clerk and court reporter.

The children were given a case and had to prepare for the day, by learning lines and practicing questions. They fulfilled all the roles of the court and interogated witnesses in the witness stand - and even had the defendent behind the glass panel.

Vivien Carter organised the mock trial, and managed to get several magistrates involved, she said: “Some of these young people wouldn’t know about the court system if it hadn’t been for today. We also hope it may divert them from offending.

“The trial has given them a focus, and for those who want to pursue law it is a focus for them too.

“Today has gone really well, every one has been superb and they are a fantastic group of children.”

As well as teachers and parents in the public gallery, the Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale, Councillor Keith Swift and Ms Sue Etchells were also in attendance.

Mayor Swift said: “I am very impressed with the preparation and the gravity with which the young people presented the prosecution and defence cases.

“Once again today shows how talented our young people are, they are a great credit to their schools and the staff who helped them prepare.”