Page 8 - Headingtonian Magazine 2017

THE JANET YOUNG MEMORIAL LECTURE Putin’s Russia
Bridget Kendall MBE, Master of Peterhouse and former BBC diplomatic correspondent, drew on her extensive experience of living and working in the Soviet Union and Russia to give a fascinating tour d’horizon of the challenges facing Russia in the modern era.
Her insightful observations also included reflections on her two interviews with President Putin. Over 200 guests attended the lecture and the large number of questions from the floor bore testament to the interest and engagement of the audience.
PEGGY DUNN SOCIETY LUNCH
The autumn term saw the second of our biennial Peggy Dunn Society lunches at the School. Named in honour of the former Headmistress, the Peggy Dunn Society is designed to promote legacy giving at Headington, following Peggy’s own generous example. The lunch is a way of thanking all those who have kindly pledged
to remember Headington in their wills. Guests heard from the Headmistress on the progress the School is making, and also enjoyed a moving address from Head Girl, Hannah Anson, on the importance of legacy contributions to the future life and success of the School. The next lunch will be held in Autumn 2018. If you are interested in joining the Peggy Dunn Society, please contact Tim Edge at tedge@headington.org
MOCK CRIMINAL TRIAL
In November 2016, the Law Department provided us with the opportunity to be a part of the jury in a mock trial at the historic Oxford Town Hall Law Court. Presided over by a retired circuit judge, the case involved a stabbing and it was up to the jury to decide whether the defendant had the intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The prosecution, led by Richard Benson QC, argued that because the defendant had left his house with a knife, this is enough to be sure that he had the intent to cause grievous bodily harm. However, the defence, led by Lucy Tapper, Headington parent and barrister, was very convincing in its argument that the stabbing was unintentional. This was because the defendant had multiple opportunities to wound the victim when he was vulnerable, meaning that
it is impossible for the jury to be completely certain of his intent. This gave us first-hand experience as to the proceedings in court. Moreover, we were able to observe two highly experienced and established barristers arguing their case, which widened our knowledge in criminal law. The mock trial was also attended by many girls from both the prep school and the senior school, who were able to gain insight into the processes of court. Zoe Freeman L6
‘A most entertaining event with wonderful performances by the students, all of whom threw themselves enthusiastically into their respective roles. It was a joy to have participated.’ Richard Benson QC
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