Debating on the world stage

Claremont High School students lead the discussion in a cross-school project mirroring the United Nations 

On 14th November 2024, Claremont High School’s Model UN group, led by Ms Hung, attended a training session at The American School in London to prepare for a conference in February 2025. During the session, the group had the opportunity to meet fellow delegates from other schools and also took part in a mock conference debating the Death Penalty, each school representing a different country.  

It was a worthwhile trip, especially as the Claremont group won the discussion! The organisers praised them for being the best-prepared students and suggested they were likely to win prizes at the actual conference in February next year. 

‘What made me most proud,’ commented Ms Hung afterwards, ‘was how well our students debated in the training sessions – they were so confident and eloquent with their speeches.’ 

But what, ultimately, is the purpose of the Model UN? 

‘I formed the group hoping to provide more opportunities for our students to discuss and debate the current issues that we are all facing in the world,’ explains Ms Hung. ‘I also wanted them to get an opportunity that is usually only available to private and independent schools. Plus, allowing them to expand their knowledge, culture and build their confidence in public speaking. I’ve been very proud to have run the Model UN for the past three years!’ 

Claremont’s involvement in the conference next year is thanks in no small part to Ms Hung’s dedication and persistence. ‘Our school was on the waiting list at first, but after some convincing, I managed to secure Claremont the opportunity to compete,’ she says, adding: ‘There are twenty other schools who didn’t get the chance this time!’ 

It clearly had a positive impact on the students who took part… 

‘This event has allowed me to gain an interest in foreign affairs and gain an insight into what it’s like to be part of a committee,’ said Rida Javed in Year 11. 

‘A fun educational activity, which helped deepen my experience of Model UN,’ reflected Mia Francisco in Year 12. 

‘It was a great experience, proving the educational standard in state schooling is high,’ commented Tyler Giddings-Crocker, also in Year 12 and the group’s secretary. ‘It was very enjoyable for everyone who went… especially the winners!’