Tonbridge hosts inaugural Model United Nations conference

This week Tonbridge welcomed students from across the region for its first Model United Nations conference.

The event brought together more than 100 students from visiting schools and Tonbridge. Participants were divided across four committees, the Security Council, DISEC, ECOSOC and UNHRC, catering to a range of experience levels from beginners to advanced debaters.

Throughout the day, delegates engaged in discussion on complex global issues, including the Iran crisis, Arctic militarisation, the regulation of AI weapons, global debt reform and digital surveillance rights. The standard of debate remained consistently high, with students demonstrating strong research and confidence in public speaking.

Top honours for best delegation were awarded to the USA team from Cranleigh School, whose performance across the conference stood out. Judges praised the delegation’s preparation and coordination.

Individual accolades were also presented, with particular recognition given to a delegate from Kent College Pembury, who was named best delegate. The achievement was especially notable as it marked the school’s first participation in a Model United Nations conference.

Ruth Davis, Director of Global Futures said, “It was a fantastic day. The atmosphere was incredibly inclusive and the standard of debate was impressive throughout. A huge thank you to the organisation committee and chairs whose hard work made it all possible.”