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27 June 2022
This weekend, North London Collegiate School (NLCS) hosted the first-ever Mini Model United Nations (MUN) conference with thirty Year 5 students from Bute House in Hammersmith, Pembridge Hall in Kensington and St Christopher’s in Hampstead joining pupils from NLCS
Normally reserved for students in Years 10 and above (age 15 upwards), this pioneering global conference gave children as young as ten a unique insight into how the United Nations works. By assuming the role of national ambassadors, the students role-played meetings such as the Security Council and General Assembly. During these sessions, the delegates debate and work together to seek solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues, just like the real thing.
Led by NLCS Sixth Formers and Year 11 students who are very experienced in the world of MUN, the thirty delegates were given a training session on how to write an effective resolution, which the younger student added to their already excellent resolutions. The level of debate and topics presented at the General Assembly was outstanding and ranged from the risk of an alien invasion and the issue of plastic in the ocean to sugar tax and child labour.
Taking on the position of delegates from France, the UK, Afghanistan, the USA and Nigeria, the students’ high level of questioning, passionate arguments and well-articulated rebuttals were impressive for students of such a young age.
Providing a broad and exciting enrichment programme that develops confidence and leadership underpins the education at NLCS, and participation in the MUN is an excellent opportunity for students to extend their learning beyond the curriculum.
“We hope this inaugural event for younger pupils will be the first of many, supporting our aim to create outward-looking and internationally-minded students who take active and positive participation in society and the wider world.” said Dr Bagworth-Mann, Interim Headmistress, North London Collegiate School.
