Pupils taking part in the Positively Portsmouth Passport to Success scheme visited the University of Portsmouth’s Mock Court room on Monday 12 December to take part in their third challenge. This time the pressure was on as they competed against The Charter Academy School to go through to the next round.

Lisa Wheeler, Law lecturer at the University of Portsmouth, began the session by explaining the roles of people in a court of Law. Then it was time for pupils to choose who they wanted to be. St John’s pupils were selected to represent the defendant: Arianna and Rob took on roles as defence Barristers; Andrew and Ellie acted as Solicitors, and Callum was the Judge. The remaining St John’s pupils formed the Jury.

Between them pupils had to decide whether Susan was guilty or not guilty of theft. After persistent questioning from the prosecution and defence, the Jury deliberated and with 8 against 5 found Susan ‘not guilty’. All that was left was to discuss suitable punishment, and try on the wig and gown!

We await the final verdict of which school won this round – watch this space!