The Mock Court Project is a long-running programme in which students learn about their rights and responsibilities and how the legal system works.

The programme brings together pupils from across the world, from both private and state schools. After attending lectures and specialist sessions, they develop their case and participate in a mock court against other schools. Mock courts take place in a real courtroom with a sitting or retired judge/sheriff.

The pupils worked on their cases for six weeks before they began the trials. The aim of the Mock Court Project is to advance the education and aspirations of young people through participation in debates, peer-tutoring and mock courts.

The project facilitates this under the tuition of volunteer teachers, legal professionals, academics and specialists. This project offers pupils an opportunity to achieve these aims, especially if they are not usually offered through their school.

The awards were given at a ceremony held at the Signet Library on 10 November.

Chairman Gerald Murphy said: “The students have excelled this year especially following the difficulties after Covid and lockdowns have had on education.”