The focus of the day was the complex and highly relevant issue of global denuclearisation. The students debated the question of how far a country is willing to go to prevent nuclear devastation. Groups representing different countries delivered speeches, formed alliances and collaborated to draft and vote on resolutions.

Dr Alan Lee, CEO of BEST, was delighted to open the event,

It was a joy to welcome schools from BEST and beyond to our Model UN Day.  The maturity, skill and compassion on show from the students is an inspiration and lesson to us all, including many world leaders!  I am extremely grateful to all the students, staff, helpers and organisers: a wonderful event.

Dr Julia Haynes, BEST History Lead and Head of Academics from Samuel Whitbread Academy, organised the Model UN Day,

“Thank you very much to Dr Alan Lee for an aspirational introduction to the delegates of the Model UN. The day provided a fantastic opportunity for collaboration between schools and for students to develop key skills in diplomacy, critical thinking, communication and teamwork, all while engaging with real-world global issues.

We would also like to extend our thanks to Dr Ben Nutt, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at the University of Hertfordshire, for his insightful talk and support throughout the day.

A final thanks to BEST for providing the refreshments. The pizza lunch was very much enjoyed by all!” (Dr Julia Haynes, Samuel Whitbread Academy)

Thank you to the students and staff from Samuel Whitbread Academy, Robert Bloomfield Academy, Pixbrook Academy, Etonbury Academy, Redborne Upper School, Harlington Upper School, Daubeney Academy, Challney School for Girls and Kempston Academy for joining us and supporting this successful event.

#BESTfamily #ModelUN #YouthLeadership #Community