Mount Pupils Experience International Diplomacy at Model United Nations
Nine pupils travelled to Bath to take park in the 35th annual BISMUN conference.
The Mount has attended this Model United Nations conference for many years – it is a great opportunity for passionate and curious pupils to put their knowledge into practice through real debates with their peers from across the country.
Our girls were chosen to represent the UK and Peru, which tested them because they had to represent countries with which they had both personal links and no links at all.
Each of our nine representatives prepared a resolution for their councils, with three of our pupils having their petitions signed, resulting in them being selected to give a speech and debate their resolution.
One attendee, Izzy said: “I really enjoyed the experience and learned how to answer difficult questions confidently. The best parts were when my resolution was passed, and debating other delegates’ resolutions. I was anxious about giving my speech at first, but Miss Abbey helped me write it and practiced with me, which made me feel more prepared and confident.”
Zoe, who also attended said: “I found MUN a really enjoyable experience as it was really fun and helped me to develop my confidence regarding public speaking. My favourite part of MUN was getting my resolution signed on the first night as it was a chance to grasp what was happening and get to know the people in my council (human rights). At first I was really nervous when they told me my resolution was going to be debated however I’m really glad it was debated as the topic (women’s rights) was something extremely relevant due to it being international women’s day.”
Another attendee, India said: “I was very nervous about having to do a speech in front of so many people, but all the girls from the mount really helped me gain confidence. I was proud to be the youngest in my committee and to get the first resolution I’ve ever written signed. I had an amazing weekend away.”
The conference finished with a debate that linked directly to current events in Iran. This gave the girls the opportunity to discuss topical political events occurring in real time, a chance for them to talk passionately and draw upon recent conversations outside of the conference.
Miss Abbey, History teacher, accompanied the pupils on this trip. She said:
“I was so proud to see our girls overcome nerves to present to crowded rooms of peers. Through thorough research, excellent preparation and taking deep breaths, they stood up and represented their countries, themselves, and The Mount School excellently well.
I love organising this annual trip where you can see our girls progress throughout the few days, returning home to ready to face future nerve-racking challenges, including exams, with a new gusto and quiet confidence. A huge well done to all of them!”
While visiting Bath for the event, the girls enjoyed a group meal and a trip to the theatre, where they watched rave-reviewed musical Operation Mincemeat. This was a was a great evening of well-deserved entertainment and relaxation after a long day of debating.
Congratulations to all who took part who were wonderful ambassadors of The Mount.
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