A few Saturdays ago, brave Year 5 students from NLCS Junior School, The Cavendish School, Pembridge Hall, St Mary Hampstead School and Glendower School came together for a dynamic and thought-provoking Model United Nations (MUN) conference. The event brought young delegates face-to-face with complex global issues, fostering a spirit of collaboration as participants worked in pairs to debate, discuss, and draft resolutions.
Across several stimulating committees, delegates tackled topics such as voting rights for prisoners, the preservation of ancient languages, the threat of piracy in the Suez Canal, and the future of digital learning tools in education. Thoughtful discussions reflected a strong understanding of global perspectives and a responsible approach to modern challenges, including the ethical use of the internet and artificial intelligence.
In one particularly compelling moment, delegates argued that even those often vilified—pirates and prisoners—should be recognised as individuals with human needs and rights, a theme that echoed the conference’s emphasis on empathy, diplomacy, and inclusivity.
The conference also served as a valuable platform for developing leadership skills, with Senior School students taking on key roles. For the first time, Year 9 and Year 10 students confidently chaired committee sessions, guiding discussions with poise and professionalism. The General Assembly was co-chaired by two students, one from Year 12 and one from Year 10, both leading for the first time. Their supportive and encouraging approach helped younger delegates feel welcome and engaged, as they gently reinforced MUN rules and procedures throughout the day. Both chairs expressed how impressed they were by the high standard of debate and the thoughtful contributions made by all participants.
The day concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating outstanding contributions and the development of key MUN skills such as public speaking, collaboration, tolerance, and the effective use of formal MUN procedures. We look forward to welcoming both returning and new delegates next year for another round of meaningful dialogue and global learning.
