The mooting program offered at this school is via the Bond University High Schools’ Mooting Competition. This event is seen as an extension to the legal studies education program.

Moots had their origins in Kentish law in England around the eighth century where local people would congregate to discuss local matters. By the end of the fourteenth century the main features of moots as we know them today began to be recognised as an important tool in training barristers in the Inns of Court in London. Today, mooting programs can be seen as an essential part of any legal education.

Students who enter the moot competition are provided with a set of facts and relevant case law to which they are restricted. They formulate arguments for either the Appellant or the Respondent as the moot is conducted at the Appeal Court level. According to the Bond University High Schools’ Mooting Competition manual p 2, mooters are expected to “explain relevant legal principles, illustrate the application of those legal principles to the facts and convince the Court that a conclusion should be drawn that favours their client”. In presenting their argument, each team member is expected to speak for 10 minutes, although if questioned by the Bench, the team member needs to be flexible and adapt their arguments so they finish within the allocated time.

Thus, mooting gives students a ‘hands on’ experience to practise courtroom etiquette and display their advocacy skills in a courtroom environment. Mooting is an intellectual exercise requiring team work, research, commitment and the ability to think on one’s feet.