PUPILS from two North Ayrshire schools found themselves in the dock at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week – but it was all in the name of education.

Students from Greenwood and St Matthew’s Academies were taking part in a set of ‘mock trials’ along with St Joseph’s and Grange Academies in Kilmarnock.

Organised by the Kilmarnock Faculty of Solicitors, the day was an introduction to criminal law and the legal profession in an informative but fun environment.

Prior to the event, local solicitors mentored the students and on the day papers were issued for a dangerous driving offence and possession of a drug with intent to supply.

Pupils adopted roles of accused, prosecution and defence solicitors, and a jury – all in front of real life sheriff Alistair Watson.

Sheriff Watson said: “I welcome the return of this event to Kilmarnock Sheriff Court after a gap of some years.

“An awareness of the courts, how they operate and how they affect the lives of many of us is an important part of citizenship in modern Scotland.

“It is also to be hoped that some of the young people involved might be inspired to pursue future careers in the justice system.” Of the 13 St Matthew’s pupils who took part, S5 pupil John Paton took on the role of defence lawyer, successfully defending the accused played by S6 pupil Erin McAuley in the dangerous driving charge against a team from Greenwood Academy.

S5 pupils Jordyn Leckie and Caitlin Daly were successful in winning the drug possession case against St Joseph’s Academy. Brandon Clydesdale, Gabrielle Turner and Yolanda Kelly acted out the parts of witnesses and each had to withstand stiff cross examinations. Heather Clift took the role of Clerk of Court and another five pupils were jurors.

Brandon said: “It was an informative and enjoyable experience.

Gabrielle added: “I enjoyed it but found the cross examination really nerve wracking!” Heather hopes to study drama when she leaves school and found the role play very useful. She said: “As a clerk of court, I found the experience both fun and helpful.

“It was a very friendly environment and although I felt nervous I had a good time and would be happy to do it again.

“Overall I think it was a good way to spend a Saturday morning!” Gordon Ghee, partner at Saltcoats solicitor Nellany and Co was one of the legal mentors.

He said: “ I was extremely proud of my team of young lawyers and witnesses in each case. John, Caitlin and Jordyn were excellent.

“They did their homework and followed the legal directions I gave them with the confidence of court regulars.

“In fact, some of my colleagues would have been proud of that performance!

“Seriously, these youngsters showed a real flair and ambition, with a keen eye for detail and the will to win.

“I was very proud of them and hope that maybe one or two of them might be future trainees at my firm in the years to come.

“I know that the judges were very impressed with the St Matthew’s pupils having spoken to them after the cases.

“It was of course all about enjoyment and participation.

“These youngsters were an absolute credit to their school. Well done St Matthews!”