News & Headteacher Blogs

Year 8 and Year 9 Social Sciences students recently had the valuable opportunity to visit Reading Magistrates’ Court, giving them a real insight into how the legal system operates beyond the classroom. This was a chance for our students to step into a working courtroom and see first-hand how cases are prepared, presented and decided.

During their time at the court, students explored the process behind a criminal trial, from the initial preparation through to the roles played by different legal professionals. They observed how barristers and solicitors present arguments clearly and confidently, how evidence is introduced and questioned, and how magistrates carefully consider each case before reaching a decision. It was particularly powerful for students to see the importance of clear communication, critical thinking and professionalism in such a formal setting.

Most importantly, the experience reinforced key messages about responsibility, justice and the rule of law. Students left with a deeper appreciation of how our legal system works to support and protect society, and how individuals contribute to that process through integrity and respect.

It was an inspiring and memorable experience, and we are grateful to the team at Reading Magistrates’ Court for giving our students such a meaningful insight into the world of law.

 

COURT REPORT: By the Court Reporter, Emily D

On the 1st of December 2025 a community of year 8 and year 9 students joined together to form the 2026 Downs Magistrates Mock Trial Team. They were brilliantly represented by our defence and prosecution team composed of Jasper S, Toby H, Armando A and Priya B. Not to mention our fabulous witnesses: Emily P, Evelyn B and Amelia P, Elizabeth F, Fraser H and Elliot M were our esteemed panel of Magistrates. Our defendant himself was none other than the witty yet sassy James A! Other more understated yet equally important roles on our team were our Legal Advisor who was wonderfully embodied by Alexis S, as well as our Usher (played by the competent and calm Maren W). Eric S who boldly stood in for some of the roles during numerous rehearsals and was ready in court to perform any part in case of emergency.

Summary of our case: The King v Kim Hanley

At 11:11pm on the 23rd of January 2026, innocent bystander Sam Friel was waiting for the night bus on King’s Street, on the phone to his partner, when out of nowhere a rider on a ‘Lemon’ bike snatched the phone straight out of Sam’s hand, henceforth breaking the UK’s Theft Act 1968 (a key piece of legislation). Immediately after the incident, a call was made from the hone of an eye-witness. After further investigation, a search was done at Kim Hanley’s house where ‘evidence’ was discovered such as SIM cards, a navy tracksuit in a bag. Kim was taken to court under breach of the Theft Act 1968.

Our Rehearsals:

Our rehearsals were fun for everyone, as even those who weren’t leading roles still got to be able to participate by sharing their thoughts and opinions - especially as there was plenty of collective scrutiny about the case! We greatly developed our skills of education and plausibility, as well as particularly focusing on finding flaws in the witness statements; for example, the statement from Taylor B who described the thief as just having their face covered, when in comparison Sam Friel claimed they wore a hat and scarf. These differences (although small) show slight flaws in the prosecution’s case against Mr Hanley which we all focused on, and our Defence team made some pertinent points about these on the day.

The trip to the Magistrates court in Reading:

There was a general air of excitement before the day when we would arrive at court. Sadly, we had been moved down to the Magistrates court instead of the Crown court where proceedings had taken place in previous years. Despite this, the court still felt quite intimidating, but since there were free cookies available, we thought we could cope!

The High Sheriff (who looks just as fancy as his name!) who not only announced the winners of the competition but also gave an informative speech about the responsibilities of the High Sheriff dating all the way back to 1066. During the court proceedings there was a panel of judges who were constantly quietly observing each one of us throughout the whole trial. I have absolutely no idea how the lawyers remained calm and professional all throughout! In total there were about 9 courts there.

Each of them had a box in which the defendant was placed. We were informed that before the proceedings the criminals would make noise downstairs, where they were held before their trial. Needless to say after that fact there was a little trepidation! I was really proud as I watched the proceedings inside the court. We had to go through the case twice, against different schools. We managed to triumph against our derby school, which was a victory within itself!

A huge thank you to all the members of staff, Mrs Seath, Mrs Gosling and Mrs  Greenwood who all advised us and stayed extra hours after school to help us prepare. A  special shout-out to Mrs Gosling who has been the main organiser and printer of sheets. I really enjoyed this opportunity to be court reporter, and am looking forward to next year when I will be given a more active role to play in court.

Emily D.

 

Further Info: The Court System Explained:

Magistrates’ Court
This is where almost all criminal cases begin. Less serious offences are dealt with here, and more serious cases start here before being passed on. Cases are decided by trained magistrates or a judge, without a jury.

Crown Court
More serious criminal cases are heard here, such as robbery or serious assault. These cases are decided by a judge and a jury. It is also where cases go if someone appeals a decision from the Magistrates’ Court.

County Court
This court deals with civil matters rather than criminal ones, such as disputes over money, housing or contracts. There is no jury in most cases, and decisions are made by a judge.

High Court
This handles more complex civil cases and important legal matters, as well as appeals from lower courts. It also has a role in reviewing decisions made by public bodies.

Court of Appeal
If someone believes a legal decision was wrong, they can appeal to this court. It reviews cases from the Crown Court and High Court to ensure the law has been applied correctly.

Supreme Court
This is the highest court in the UK. It deals with the most important or complex legal issues, often involving points of law that affect the whole country.