On Saturday, 22nd March 2025, 350 students from 24 schools across the UK gathered at the Royal Courts of Justice in London for the final of the Bar Mock Trial Competition 2024-2025. This event marked the culmination of a highly competitive series, with 214 schools participating in the regional heats.

Campbell College, achieved an impressive second place in the UK, showcasing exceptional skill and dedication. This remarkable achievement is particularly noteworthy as it comes after just four years of participation in the competition. We extend our congratulations to the Boswells School for their outstanding achievement in winning first place.

A special commendation goes to Noah (Year 11, Dobbin's), one of our team members, who won Best Witness in the R v Hinton case. His performance, along with the efforts of all our boys, received glowing feedback from judges and spectators alike. Their advocacy and teamwork over the past few months have been commendable, making the event an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

The Attorney General, Lord Hermer KC, addressed the competitors, praising their commitment to the rule of law and encouraging them to "come and be brilliant lawyers" because "the country needs you." His inspiring words were echoed by other distinguished guests, including Lady Justice Thirlwall, Barbara Mills KC (Chair of The Bar Council of England and Wales), former Lord Speaker Baroness D'Souza, and many esteemed volunteers from the Judiciary and Bar.

Our students shared their thoughts on the experience:

"To be in such historical and prestigious surroundings as the RCJ was inspiring and exciting. The wigs and gowns made it feel so real and totally made me believe that I could do this for my career one day!"

"I’m so glad to have been part of our school team. It felt good to be part of this. I’ve made a lot of new friends and learnt many new skills, and used my critical thinking. Every role within the team was important because we were all scored individually. This made us all give it 100% and by working together all the way through we all helped spot the errors in our case and knew exactly where we were going with our team questions. That bonded us together."

"Being a witness was so fun, I totally believed in my story and I enjoy drama, so couldn’t wait to get into the actual witness box."

"The real judges were really helpful. It’s hard to believe they are the same judges who hear real barristers in the highest courts in the land every day. It really inspired me to become a judge."

For a detailed report on the day's events, please click HERE

We extend our sincere thanks to O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors, Belfast, for their generous sponsorship, which enabled all 15 boys to travel to the final. We also express our gratitude to Young Citizens and the Royal Courts of Justice for organising such a worthwhile experience.

Congratulations to all the boys involved for their incredible achievement. A special thank you to Mrs Hempstead, whose dedication and support made this possible. We are immensely proud of you all.

Photo credit: Sabrina Fearon-Melville / Young Citizens