Wyke has achieved a remarkable victory at the Bar Mock Trial regional heat, held at Leeds Beckett University Law School. The competition, run by Young Citizens, gives students aged 15–18 a unique opportunity to experience the legal system firsthand, preparing and presenting real criminal cases in a courtroom setting.
Former Baysgarth student Connie Bell shared her excitement, "Taking part in the National Bar Mock Trial competition has been an incredible experience. Winning the regional heat was a huge achievement for our team, and advancing to the final round in London feels like a dream come true. It’s given us real insight into the legal profession and boosted our confidence in advocacy and teamwork."
Former Wolfreton student Arielle Pounder reflected on the challenge, "“The competition was intense, and the opposing teams were really well-prepared. I’m proud of how we performed, emphasizing key arguments and adapting to the situation rather than relying solely on our prepared material. When our name was announced as the winners, I was so happy. Next stop, the finals in London!”
The Bar Mock Trial is part of Young Citizens’ mission to help young people understand how the law impacts everyday life and to inspire active citizenship. Colleges and schools receive specially written criminal cases and resources to prepare legal arguments before competing in regional heats. Winners progress to the National Final, held at the prestigious Royal Courts of Justice in London, where they face 24 of the best teams from across the UK.
Acting Head of Applied Law Joanne Cole shared her excitement, “On Saturday, we took 17 students to Leeds Law School as part of the Bar Mock Trial, a Young Citizens project. There were eight colleges competing this year. We went, we conquered, and we won! We were up against last year’s winners, Harrogate, who came third. Now we’re through to the national competition—the Grand Final in London. Our students will present at the Royal Courts of Justice, which is an incredible opportunity.”
Joanne also gave special recognition, “A huge shout out to our Law teachers for making this possible. Deborah West for organising and orchestrating everything, and to Jess Addison for all the support.”
Deborah West, Law Teacher, expressed her gratitude after receiving the trophy, saying, "Our students have been outstanding today. I’d like to give special thanks to Gosschalks Solicitors for their invaluable support and insightful Advocacy workshop, and to Gaynor Hall, Barrister at Crown Chambers, Hull, for her continued guidance and encouragement."
Principal Julie Peaks praised the achievement, “An absolutely amazing achievement. Really well done to all the students and everyone who helped prepare and take them there. Fantastic work and another final to look forward to.”
The Wyke team will now compete in London against 24 schools in three intense rounds judged by senior members of the judiciary. The team includes four barristers, four witnesses, a court clerk, an usher, and four jury members, all of whom have shown incredible dedication, balancing trial preparation with their qualifications as part of the Pre-Law enrichment program.
On the day, advocates will demonstrate forensic cross-examination skills, adapting their questioning under pressure, while witnesses face rigorous challenges from opposing teams. The event concludes with a Q&A session with judges, offering invaluable insight and inspiration for future careers in law.
Once again, congratulations to our champions. Next stop London.
