Y10 Harris Experience - Kalisher Mock Trial
On Wednesday the 2nd of April, we were delighted to welcome back the Kalisher Trust to Harris Academy St John's Wood. Kalisher is an established charity that aims to increase access to jobs in the law sector. They started by giving an overview of what it is like to be a lawyer, pathways to getting there, and the differences between a solicitor and a barrister.
The students were given a brief of a case that involved a robbery and then were split into four groups, two creating an argument for the defence and two creating a speech for the prosecution. Each group had one barrister working wtih them, who taught them how to approach and master writing a convincing argument. We then regrouped to present the speeches, and we were impressed with how many students volunteered to stand up in front of everyone to say their bit.
After voting for which side was strongest, two of the professional barristers then gave us an example of how they would have argued for each side, which was fascinating as everyone was now familiar with the case. They even put on their gowns and wigs, which the students had many questions about!
Many thanks to the lawyers at Kalisher Trust who gave their time to inspire and encourage the Year 10 students.
