Young people in Hammersmith and Fulham are gaining skills in public speaking thanks to volunteers from the legal profession.

Pupils from the St John XXIII Catholic Primary School in Shepherds Bush have used mock courtroom trials as a new way to think, speak and debate.

“I’ve not always been the most confident person in class, but this has helped me be more confident and to voice my opinions,” said one participant.

The sessions were run by Lawyers4Learners, who help students improve their communication skills to gain more from their education, approach job interviews with confidence and boost their chances in later life.

The social mobility charity was picked for funding by the Young H&F Grant Makers.

The public speaking coaching was one of nine projects chosen earlier this year by young people working with Young Hammersmith & Fulham to share £50,000 of grant money.

Photo credit: H&F Young Grant Makers