On Monday 13th November, a group of Lower Sixth and Year 11 students took part in a practice Model United Nations debate to help them prepare for the Cambridge Model UN Conference.

This event will involve students from Years 11 to Upper Sixth and is scheduled for February.

Mia Vadgama (Year 11) reflected on the session: “For most of the Lower Sixth students this was their first debate. In the chair was Kiki Adams (Upper Sixth) who used her own experience to ably inform the students on the procedures and guide them through their first debate. Some countries that made an appearance were: Pakistan, Poland, Germany, Sweden and many more.

“The countries came together and formed three clear groups creating their own resolutions to solve this global issue. Kiribati, Egypt and Canada formed a block- their resolution was to help all countries who signed on by providing support in their own ways. North Korea, Pakistan and China created an alliance- their resolution was that China would support North Korea and Pakistan in exchange for their support and allegiance with China. Finally, there was Poland, Germany, Sweden, UK and Mexico and they formed an alliance- their resolution was a Red, Amber, Green system for each country, to identify those that most needed support. The resolutions provided opportunities for a lively debate; an honourable mention to Pakistan and Germany for their passion and commitment to the speeches.

“I really enjoyed this debate and it definitely achieved its purpose- to prepare year 12 for CAMMUN in February and it served as a reminder to the year 11’s, who took part in a conference last academic year. I think Model UN is a great opportunity to build confidence and gain a wider understanding of global issues. It also improves problem solving skills.”

Francesca Isherwood (Lower Sixth) added: “The conference was an amazing first taste of MUN. The chair was very helpful when instructing us on proper procedures and allowing us to feel confident to speak up when representing our countries.”