Interview with our MUN Director Mrs Clark
1. How and why did you first get involved with MUN?
I first supervised at a MUN conference with Stockport Grammar School, which was the first school in the North West to participate in MUN, in the mid 1980s. Their usual supervisor wasn’t able to so I got the opportunity to accompany the students and even that first time the activity really captured my imagination and I loved seeing them all debating and discussing interesting issues. I just knew it was something I wanted to be involved more in.
2. What is it that you enjoy most about being the Director of MUN?
The absolute best thing about it is when you walk into a committee room and see one of your own delegates taking the floor, especially if you know that has been difficult for them and can clearly see how much they have gained in confidence due to MUN.
3. Is there anything you have learned from your involvement in MUN?
Most significantly, to never underestimate any student. It is always so impressive the way pupils pull everything together, all their research, and really make something great out of the opportunity.
4. Who do you hope that MUN appeals to?
I think everyone should give MUN a go, even if you don’t think it will be your cup of tea you should definitely try. Certainly don’t be afraid, it should be an activity them everyone above Year 9 gets involved with.
5. What skills does MUN give those involved?
MUN helps students to learn how to think on their feet and respond quickly to questions and queries. Also, it increases understanding of current affairs and encourages open-mindedness by forcing you to consider the view of a particular country, whose position on an issue may be the complete opposite of your own. It also develops research skills and teaches students how to cooperate and compromise, both during debate and in life.
6. What makes MUN a good model of or model for the United Nations?
The emphasis on dialogue is so important in both MUN and the UN, it shows us that we really do have to talk and listen to resolve issues facing the world. It is vital how MUN gives students the chance to truly understand another country, point of view and culture, a skill that is invaluable to the UN’s work.
7. Is there any MUN moment you will always remember?
Oh, there are just too many, from all three of the schools I’ve led MUN at, so many wonderful moments and achievements. If I had to pick one it might be when I went to America with my first two WGS Secretary Generals, Martha and Lizzie, and their faces just lit up looking at the Security Council in the UN Headquarters. That was a really special moment.
8. Finally, how would you sum up MUN?
The beauty of MUN is that whilst it enables students to learn more about our world they also often learn a lot about themselves and what they are capable of.