Mock Trial Champions and Work Experience
Year 12 Students Triumph in Coutts Lawyers Knockout Mock Trial Competition
We are thrilled to congratulate Year 12 students Lara F, MJ E, and Joshua D for their outstanding representation of our school in the prestigious Coutts Lawyers Knockout Mock Trial Competition held in Narellan. Competing against some of the region’s most accomplished schools, the team demonstrated exceptional advocacy, critical thinking, and teamwork skills in a challenging courtroom-style setting.
The trio delivered a flawless performance, winning all three rounds of the competition. In Round 1, they successfully defended their case against St Patrick’s, showcasing their legal prowess and poise. In Round 2, they transitioned to the role of plaintiff, securing another victory against Broughton Anglican College. Finally, in the grand final, they once again represented the plaintiff and delivered a compelling argument, ultimately triumphing over Elizabeth Macarthur.
However, the significance of this achievement extends beyond the impressive results. Throughout the competition, Lara, MJ, and Joshua honed invaluable skills in legal reasoning, public speaking, and strategic thinking. Their ability to construct persuasive arguments, think on their feet, and collaborate seamlessly under pressure was nothing short of extraordinary. These qualities are a true reflection of their commitment to excellence.
As a testament to their remarkable efforts, the team proudly brought home a $500 cash prize for the school. This well-earned victory is a tribute to their hard work, dedication, and talent. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing what they will accomplish next.
Congratulations, champions!
Work Experience
Work experience is an excellent way to develop insights to possible careers and pathways. The purpose of work experience is to give students exposure to the skills, practices, and tasks undertaken within a particular industry. They recognise the discipline required to succeed in employment, develop responsibility, and learn to communicate effectively with colleagues. Students undertake a one-week block at a host employer, observing key staff and often completing small tasks that model the skills required for the industry. In the past, students have undertaken work experience in areas including plumbing, automotive, carpentry, health, the Australian Defence Force, law, and landscaping. Students seeking apprenticeships or traineeships often start their journey with a period of work experience. Employers, seeing the commitment of students firsthand are much more likely to offer them vocational positions. Sometimes work experience is also beneficial for deciding that a particular career is not for them. It’s all about assisting students to develop a more informed opinion about their career aspirations.
At OPAC, students can arrange work experience blocks during the term 1, 2, and 3 school holidays. Year 10 is the best opportunity to take advantage of work experience. Students contact a host employer and negotiate a one-week block. They then complete forms, signed by the host employer, parents, and themselves, returning these to Mr Little to finalise their placement. In 2025, students will also complete a short, online work health and safety module to better inform them of their rights and responsibilities during work experience.
Large companies and government entities such as the ADF or NSW Health often run their own work experience programs, so be on the lookout for your areas of interest!
If you have any questions, please contact Mr Little.
God bless,
Mrs Maria Mertzanakis
Deputy Head of Senior School – Teaching and Learning
