By Leyla Nurettin (Lower Sixth)

On Tuesday the 28th of February, the Years 10 and Lower Sixth students thoroughly enjoyed an afternoon of informal Model UN debating.  

The session gave those students who had not experienced MUN or any other structural debating an opportunity to consolidate their knowledge of current affairs, ways to build a structured argument, present ideas and clauses with confidence. Some of the students who had attended conferences also had the opportunity to chair. A huge well done to these students for all their hard work in organising this event, who had the patience to help us all prepare position papers and during the debate listen and prompt us when we were unsure what language to use and when.

The students were split into two smaller groups, discussing either the debate topic of: Brain Drain or Space Exploration. During the debate, I was the delegate for the People's Republic of China and debated about Space Exploration and the effect of the carbon footprint from satellite debris. As soon as the debate started, the other countries were asking me very challenging questions. Although it was difficult at times to think on my feet, it was certainly a memorable experience. Throughout the MUN simulation, I learned that confidence is key to presenting any type of speech, it gives a sense of certainty in what you're saying, not only within yourself but to others.

In the summer half term, BGS is looking to host other Harpur Trust schools for an entire day of debating. If you have any sort of experience of debating, big or small, please email Mrs Greenwood or Mrs Barber about your interest in going.