MiniTrials – an initiative begun by Scots lawyers to help schools find out more about the Scottish legal system – simulates court cases and is designed to be conducted by secondary schools in Scotland.

A representative from MiniTrials explains: “MiniTrials have worked alongside The Clark Foundation for many years. Trustees from The Clark Foundation work closely, on a regular basis, with the MiniTrials Steering Group. They really understand the aims of MiniTrials and offer advice when required on the advancement of the organisation.

“In the last few years alone they have assisted in the funding of two posts within the Steering Group – a secretary and social media manager. They have also aided with the modernisation of the website, the funding for video production to create advertising material and regularly fund the supply of lunches for the school pupils at the Edinburgh inter-schools MiniTrials event held in October each year.

“The foundation’s assistance has been instrumental in helping MiniTrials thrive. We look forward to continuing our work with them for many years to come.”

To conclude, the Clark Foundation trustees wish to pay their thanks to the previous applicants who have contributed to this series – Almira Delibegović-Broome KC, Professor Andrew Steven, Jamie McGowan, the Scottish Young Lawyers’ Association and MiniTrials.

We also take this opportunity to pay special thanks to John Fulton. John contributed to this series but also played an important role in the creation of the Clark Foundation and was actively involved until his retirement as chair in 2024.

The Clark Foundation is in the fortunate position of being able to support a wide variety of initiatives in line with the trust’s purpose. Applications are assessed based on merit and they are reviewed by the Clark Foundation’s Legal Education Advisory Committee, which provides invaluable assistance to the Foundation.

Why apply: You could receive funding to develop your career through legal education; launch a new initiative; fund IT support; fund a project or event; undertake research; assist students; promote good citizenship and civil responsibility… the list goes on. We hope that Jean’s legacy can live on for generations to come and we very much welcome applications.

Applications for funding are open until 31 March 2025.