Last weekend was the London Youth Model United Nations, which saw over 500 delegates from schools and sixth forms across London gather together at LSE. Together they formed committees covering ground such as international security, regional diplomacy and law & human rights.

The theme of this year's Youth MUN was "Unity in Diversity", highlighting the importance of embracing different perspectives to address global challenges. 

LAE participated with a delegation of 15 students from Year 12. And three of them, Elliot, Greta and Inayah, were also recognised with special awards for their insightful contributions and creative thinking.

As well as the committees, there was a panel on the future of diplomacy, opening and closing ceremonies and even an evening ball. Most delegates were assigned a country to research and then debate from their point of view.

One student, however, was in a different group, the House of Commons, a specialised committee. 'This meant that instead of being given a country, I got given the role of Rachel Reeves, who’s the Chancellor of the Exchequer. We did Prime Minister's Questions, passed bills, and had so many parliamentary debates over the three days.'

Greta said of the experience, 'I really enjoyed taking part in the London Youth MUN because although it was at times tiring, I got to develop my debating and research skills, and I now feel much more confident explaining my ideas with assertiveness. The chairs were also so lovely and very supportive, so I always felt I was in a safe environment where it was alright to make mistakes.'

LAE's student delegates are all also members of our Model UN Club, which has weekly sessions in which students developed their communication, persuasion and critical thinking skills, whilst also learning more about how the UN functions. It is one of nearly twenty clubs that Year 12 students can choose from to expand their skills and awareness of the world around them.