Nick Hayward, former Isle of Wight High Sheriff, shares this latest news. Ed
On Saturday 6th December 2025 more than 130 Island pupils gave up their Saturday, along with teachers, supporters and court staff, at this busy time of year, in order to take part in the inter-school Mock Trial competition.
It was held in The Crown Court, Newport, by kind permission of His Honour Judge Michael Bowes KC. There were nine teams taking part in what proved to be a close fought contest, with Christ the King College winning and taking the coveted trophy, presented by the current High Sheriff, Jacque Gazzard.
All three of the Crown Court judges, who travelled to the Island at their own expense and in spite of the stormy conditions, were immensely impressed with the high standard of preparation and delivery of the cases by all the students.
A feather in the cap for the Island.
Pursuing a career in law
What was even more encouraging was the decision by six students to take up law as a career, having taken part.
When I first started the competition during my year as High Sheriff in 2012, I wanted to enable young Islanders to come into the court and appreciate how our legal system works.
Since then thousands of Island pupils have participated and more than 60 students have made similar choices and pursued a future in Law.
Supporters
We would like to thank ROUSE Ltd who have generously sponsored the competition since 2012 supported by Duxmore Botanics, Glanvilles Damant and Wight Knuckle Brewery.
