Four schools went head-to-head in the inaugural Junior Mooting Competition at the University of Chichester on Monday (29 June).
The event, organised by All Rise!, saw pupils from Bishop Luffa School, Oscar Romero Catholic School, Chichester Free School and Windlesham House School compete in a series of moots (debates), showcasing their advocacy, teamwork and public speaking skills.
The students worked in pairs to present their arguments and then responded to the arguments of the opposing team before giving a closing statement. Subjects included the use of artificial intelligence (AI), school bans on mobile phones and animal rights.
The competition was judged by Dr Amy Elkington, Head of Law Programmes at the University of Chichester, and Professor Vaughan Lowe KC, leading international law barrister and visiting lecturer at the University.
Dr Amy Elkington said: “We were thoroughly impressed by the high standard of the arguments persuasively and confidently put forward by the students who took part.”
Oscar Romero Catholic School were crowned the inaugural champions and presented with a trophy.
James Stewart, Founder of All Rise Workshops, said: “Mooting gives young people something that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. It teaches them to think critically, listen carefully, build persuasive arguments and disagree respectfully. These are not just skills for future lawyers – they are skills for life, helping young people find their voice, communicate with confidence and participate positively in the world around them.
“We hope this competition will become an annual event, inspiring many more young people to discover the power of advocacy, respectful debate and effective communication.”
To find out more about Law at the University of Chichester, visit: https://www.chi.ac.uk/law/