Margaret River students are mediation masters

Margaret River students have taken part in the program over a number of years and MRSHS History and Social Sciences teacher Benjamin Finch said the competition focuses on providing young people with skills to deal with difficult situations.

“Conflict resolution skills such as leadership, problem solving and active listening around strict criteria feature heavily in the contest,” Mr Finch said.

“Student teams are given a scenario and then 'battle' against an opposing school team from various private and public schools across the State.

“The process is generally recorded and sent to Perth where volunteer lawyers and magistrates assess and provide a score.”

Course popularity at the school has increased over the years since it was established and Mr Finch said this allowed two teams to be formed for the tournament from both the Year 9 and 10 student groups.

Margaret River Senior High School’s enrichment and engagement program funded both teams – ‘Team Margaret’ and ‘Team River’ – to make the trip to Perth to compete.

“Both teams performed admirably in every round,”Mr Finch said.

‘Team Margaret’ progressed to the grand final, where they faced off against reigning champions from Perth College at the event at Perth’s Supreme Court last Wednesday.

“Students handled their nerves and put together their best performance of the season to claim the State School Champions perpetual trophy for 2016,” a proud Mr Finch said.

“The icing on the cake came later when the second team, Team River, was awarded the encouragement award which is another State-wide honour.”

“The trip to Perth was absolutely fantastic for all involved, everyone is very proud of the group and their performances at the competition, as well as their enthusiasm for the whole program.

“We have a great bunch of young adults learning key skills to help in later life.”