Last week, twelve S5-S6 pupils travelled to London to participate in the London Oratory School Model UN Conference.

Their first day in London was packed full of travel and fantastic opportunities. The pupils were delighted to be welcomed to Parliament by Lord Stephen, Class of ‘78 who gave pupils a fascinating behind the scenes tour of both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. They then had the opportunity to listen to MPs discuss Trophy Hunting and see the debating chamber itself in action.

In the afternoon, the pupils met with Iain Anderson, Class of ‘86. As the Executive Chairman of Cicero/AMO, the UK's largest political lobbying and communications business, Iain spoke with pupils about their future plans, answered questions about his work, as well as sharing tips and ideas on how best to enter into effective dialogue with others.

On the second day, pupils attended the London Oratory School Model UN Conference. The event started with a keynote speech from Julie Etchingham, broadcast journalist and ITV news presenter who advised pupils on how effective public speaking, preparation and practice are key as well as connecting with people on a human level, stirring hearts and engaging minds. 

Representing the countries of Ukraine, Mexico and UAE, the pupils debated on a number of topics including; preventing armed conflict in space, securing global energy supplies and continuing UN missions in the Congo and many more. 

James (S5), Secretary General said: “The trip was an amazing experience and I used this opportunity to improve my experience both as a debater and as a chair of Model UN.” 

S5 pupil Eishah, one of our Secretariat shared: “The LOSMUN trip was a once in a lifetime experience which I will forever cherish and look back on fondly. The conference itself was riveting, had some really interesting topics and I was able to make so many new friends as well as use my MUN skills. We were also able to connect a lot as a group by navigating our way through London and exploring it together. In the end we came out of it all with a stronger bond, with friendships that will last a lifetime, and memories that I’ll never forget. It’s something that if I could do again, I most definitely would!” 

Lara, also S5 echoed these ideas, saying: “The trip was a fantastic opportunity! I had loads of fun and made some new friends. The Parliament buildings were stunning and I enjoyed having first hand experience of a debate inside the Commons. The actual Conference was amazing and a great experience for me. I learned lots of new tricks to use during debates as well as becoming more confident in speaking to others.”