YEAR 6 MOCK TRIAL COMPETITION 2025
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do we need to write our own script?
No. We will provide a scripted court scenario which will be sent out in advance. There will be one script for the Local Heats and a different script for the Grand Final Competition. Children should please stick to the script and not introduce their own questions in cross examination. We do not expect the children to learn the script or be word perfect. We do expect them to be familiar with their lines and role so they are able to give a confident performance.
How many pupils will be able to take part?
For the Local Heats there is a speaking role for 6 children. The Grand Final has speaking parts for 7 pupils and 2 non-speaking roles for the Court Artist and Court Reporter.
When will these events occur?
The Local Heats will be arranged between January and the Easter break. The Grand Final will be held in June. Exact dates will be provided as soon as possible in the New Year.
Can we enter more than one team?
You may be able to enter up to a maximum of two teams for the Local Heats if there is capacity. It’s important the competition is open to as many different schools across Greater Manchester as possible. We will be holding the Local Heats across all the Greater Manchester boroughs so that the Grand Final has as wide a geographical spread as possible.
Local Heats and Grand Final locations?
There will be 5 Local Heats across Greater Manchester with schools from neighbouring boroughs competing for a place. We will try to arrange locations as close to the competing schools locations as possible. Details of locations will be provided as soon as possible prior to the heats.
The Grand Final is expected to be held at Hemsley House in Salford, as in previous years.
How long will the competition take?
For the Local Heats, as a provisional guide, we expect each school to be with us for around 1 hour and 15 minutes, not the full day. Each trial lasts 45 minutes plus time to arrive, set up and vacate.
For the Grand Final a running order timetable will be issued 4 weeks before the date of the competition. Arrival will be no earlier than 08:45am and the event will conclude with prizes and awards, no later than 13.45pm. Exact timings will be confirmed nearer the competition. The trial itself takes about 45 mins.
Can you facilitate pupils with special needs?
We welcome all pupils of all abilities. Please notify us of any special needs beforehand and we shall be pleased to make adjustments to accommodate if required.
How do we apply for a contribution towards transport costs?
We have been fortunate in obtaining sponsorship to offer schools a contribution to the cost of travel for the local heats and the final if needed. Write to the event organiser, Rachel Medcalf JP using the email
enquiries@gmma-mic.net
The questions below only apply to the Grand Final Competition: