After weeks of preparation, the day started off a bit slow, with everyone feeling quite nervous, although we needn’t have worried. On arrival, we first got the opportunity to survey the courtroom before being greeted by an opening speech.

In our first heat, our defence lawyers and witnesses put forward an excellent and well-thought-out case, despite pressure from the opposing team. Our usher ensured everyone was in the right place whilst our legal adviser oversaw the whole process. Meanwhile, our magistrates sat at the front with the Lead Magistrate. In the end, our defence team ended up winning the case.

After a short break, our second heat began against another school, this time with us as the prosecution. The case we had been presented was difficult to prove guilty; however, thanks to an amazing show from all who took part, we also managed to win this heat.

Once both our heats had finished, we anxiously awaited the results and were thrilled when we realised that we had won first place, placing us in the regional finals! We were so glad all our hard work had paid off, and we got to take a picture with the High Sheriff of the Royal County of Berkshire!

Overall, we learnt so much from this experience, from the basics of the legal system to working together to put forward an argument in court. We would like to thank all the teachers who helped us, especially Ms Heath for organising this event and giving us the opportunity to take part in the competition.

We look forward to our next round at the regionals in May!

By Enya and Sawera, Year 9