STUDENTS from Stroud High School will compete in a Mock trial competition at Worcester Magistrates Court on Saturday, March 11.

They will battle it out against 12 other schools in the local heat and if successful progress to the regional finals in May and even the national final held at Nottingham Magistrates Court in June.

This event is in its 23rd year and will see 12-14 year-olds from 270 schools across the country challenge for the top prize.

Competitors will take on the roles of lawyers, witnesses, magistrates, court staff and defendants to bring the mock trials to life.

Students will be given specially written cases in which the defendant stands accused of domestic burglary.

There is also a court reporter and court artist competition, for budding journalists and artists.

The competition enables students to learn about all aspects of the criminal justice system and to develop confidence in personal skills such as public speaking, analysis techniques and working as a team.

A judging panel will be made up of local magistrates and other legal professionals.

Stroud High will meet the schools listed below in their opening heat.

Alcester Academy

Blessed Edward Oldcorne RC College, Worcester

The Bewdley School

The Chase School, Malvern

Droitwich Spa High School

King Charles 1 School, Kidderminster

Lacon Childe School, Cleobury Mortimer

Prince Henry’s High School, Evesham

St John’s C of E Middle School  Academy, Bromsgrove

Trinity High School, Redditch

Tudor Grange Academy, Worcester

Waseley Hills High School