Model United Nations at Ashbourne: Developing Future Leaders
Ashbourne College’s Model United Nations (MUN) programme stands out as a key part of our wider enrichment offering. As the most popular club at the college, MUN reflects Ashbourne’s commitment to helping students grow beyond the curriculum, developing the confidence, curiosity and communication skills needed to thrive at university and beyond.
Students who take part in MUN engage in academic discussion, negotiation and diplomacy, while forming a deeper understanding of global affairs. These opportunities are carefully structured by the college to complement A-level studies and support personal development.
What Is Model United Nations?
Model United Nations is a simulation of the real United Nations, where students represent different countries and debate current global issues. It is an academically rigorous activity that develops a wide range of skills, from critical thinking and research to public speaking and collaboration.
At Ashbourne, MUN is more than a weekly club. It’s part of a wider approach to enrichment that encourages students to take intellectual and personal responsibility. Our programme offers students the chance to engage with complex issues in a professional setting, preparing them for the challenges of university and adult life.
Ashbourne’s Approach to MUN
As part of our enrichment programme, Ashbourne offers students the opportunity to attend two MUN conferences each academic year. These events bring together sixth form students from across the country for structured, high-level debate.
Participation in these conferences is fully supported by the college. Students are guided through weekly preparation sessions led by staff. These sessions focus on research, policy development, speech writing and debate, all within a supportive environment that helps students build confidence and clarity in communication.
This structured preparation ensures that students not only represent Ashbourne to a high standard but also gain meaningful experience in teamwork, leadership and diplomacy. These are key student leadership skills that are valued by universities and employers alike.
Developing Responsibility Through Enrichment
Ashbourne places a strong emphasis on developing independent, capable learners. Our MUN programme is one of several initiatives designed to help students take ownership of their learning journey.
By preparing for and participating in MUN, students learn to manage deadlines, lead teams, and engage with diverse viewpoints, essential extracurricular skills for sixth form students. The emphasis is always on encouraging students to take initiative, challenge themselves, and grow in confidence.
Preparing for University and Beyond
Participation in MUN forms part of a wider narrative of personal development that strengthens UCAS applications and helps students stand out. The skills developed, analytical thinking, diplomacy, public speaking and collaboration, are especially valuable for students applying for competitive courses in law, politics, international relations, or the humanities more broadly.
These experiences also contribute to students’ self-awareness and maturity, qualities that are central to Ashbourne’s approach to sixth form education. MUN is one of many ways we support our students in becoming well-rounded, future-ready individuals.
Ultimately
Ashbourne College provides a dynamic and supportive environment where academic achievement is enriched by meaningful extracurricular opportunities. The success and popularity of our Model United Nations UK programme reflects this wider ethos.
1. What is Model United Nations (MUN)?
Model United Nations is a simulation of the United Nations, where students represent countries and debate global issues. It develops critical skills such as research, public speaking, teamwork, and diplomacy.
2. Why is MUN important for sixth form students?
MUN helps students grow beyond the classroom by building leadership, confidence, and analytical skills. These qualities are highly valued by universities and employers, especially for competitive courses like law, politics, and international relations.
3. How does Ashbourne College run its MUN programme?
Ashbourne offers weekly preparation sessions covering research, policy writing, and debate, alongside participation in two MUN conferences each year. This structured approach ensures students are well-prepared and gain meaningful leadership experience.
4. What skills do students gain from taking part in MUN?
Students develop diplomacy, negotiation, and debate skills, as well as confidence in public speaking. They also learn teamwork, leadership, and time management, all essential for university and future careers.