THE old City Hall law courts sprang back into life this week, as students interested in a career in the law took part in sentencing exercises.

Around 60 students from across a number of Bradford schools have been taking part in the three-day Student Pre-University Court Exposure (SPRUCE) course at City Hall.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Judge Jonathan Rose during a mock sentencing exercise during the SPRUCE programme for sixth formersJudge Jonathan Rose during a mock sentencing exercise during the SPRUCE programme for sixth formers

Delivered by Judge Jonathan Rose from Bradford Combined Courts and hosted by Bradford Council, the course gives Year 12 students an insight into possible careers in the legal industry from the experts themselves.

Bradford Council’s work experience and placements team, known as Xperience, has been involved in promoting the course across the district, and it has been hosted at City Hall once again.

During the course the sixth formers were able to gain an idea of what is involved in the study of law and what it is like to work as a solicitor, barrister or legal executive.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Amaan Ishfaq and Sian Phillips, from Beckfoot School in Bingley, who both took part in the SPRUCE courseAmaan Ishfaq and Sian Phillips, from Beckfoot School in Bingley, who both took part in the SPRUCE course

They were also able to hear from practising professionals includes judges, barristers, and solicitors, about the various career pathways open to them if they choose to study law.

Judge Rose described the event as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet and learn from those who teach and practice the law”.

On Wednesday groups of students took part in mock sentencing exercises, dressed in wigs and gowns, using real-life cases as examples in the former courtrooms at City Hall.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The start of the SPRUCE course in the Council Chamber at City HallThe start of the SPRUCE course in the Council Chamber at City Hall

Participants Sian Phillips and Amaan Ishfaq, both 17, from Beckfoot School in Bingley, told the Telegraph & Argus how valuable the experience had been for them both.

Sian said: “I came here because I wanted to see whether I was interested in law as a career – and wanted the hands-on experience that this has given us.”

Amaan said: “It's been a fantastic opportunity to take part in this SPRUCE event.

“As a student considering law as a chosen career path, I think it massively helped me gain an insight into the law and also understand the day-to-day business of a solicitor.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: A mock sentencing exercise in the old courts at City Hall as part of the SPRUCE courseA mock sentencing exercise in the old courts at City Hall as part of the SPRUCE course

Councillor Imran Khan, deputy leader and education, employment and skills portfolio holder, said it had been an “incredible opportunity” for young people across the district.

“A huge thanks to HHJ Rose from Bradford Combined Court Service for organising and to all the guest speakers who have taken the time to engage with young people and help to kick-start their future careers in law.”

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