Courtroom drama is no trial for COPC students

City of Portsmouth College’s A Level Law students have been putting their knowledge to the test in a real-life courtroom.

Acting as barristers, defendants and witnesses, the students took on full roles within the court – with pupils from local schools getting in on the drama by forming the jury.

Overseen by “judge” Emily Lavery, from law firm Irwin Mitchell, the COPC students delivered a realistic and engaging case from start to finish before the jury voted on a guilty or not guilty verdict.

The COPC students who took part were Maseera Abbas, Christiana Obe, Jessica Page, Alex Bucur, Maya Heath, Sonny Martin, Charlie Mayell-Thomas, Jade Harrison, Paul Wicher, Belle Brown, Korin Rogers, Reggie Upstell and Mafalda Costa.

Laura Meli, from the COPC work experience team, said: “It was fantastic to see their hard work, preparation, and professionalism on display. And it was a great opportunity to actively involve the students in the legal process, enhance their understanding of the justice system, and provide all participants with valuable, practical work experience.”

COPC thanked Emily for acting as judge and adding authenticity to the experience, Jess Fisher from Solent Careers Hub and Sarah Shannon from the University of Portsmouth for helping to create the experience.

“Events like this highlight the value of experiential learning; building confidence, communication skills, and giving students a real insight into future careers in law,” added Laura.