Four motivated and assertive Social Sciences students went to UC to participate in a Model European Union Conference.

Hillmorton students attending UC Model EUOn 10th and 11th of June, four students from Hillmorton High School attended the Model EU event at University of Canterbury. Delegates from schools came along and assumed the role as a Member of the European Parliament (MEPs) to debate a draft directive focused on human rights and climate action. They were assigned to be a part of one of the political groups which they held views of and a committee of the European Parliament which they debated on. The committees are Civil Liberties, Environment, Feminism, Human Rights and Foreign Affairs, and delegates debated and proposed amendments on how to address these topics from their assigned party's ideologies. Delegates attended party and committee sessions to discuss the amendments with those with similar interests to find the best outcome to dealing with the problem. 

“The plenary was definitely the most fun and interesting part of this event. It was a really cool experience and was very entertaining to listen to others debate so intensely. It was a pleasure to meet lots of passionate and friendly people.“ - Yuki Lin“

Model EUP is an excellent way to experience the European Union, one of the world's most important trade & political institutions. By us being able to partake in this simulation of the European parliament we have learned in way that is more beneficial than sitting down and taking notes in a classroom” - Josh Craig“

Communicating and working with others was a big part of Model EU and a great opportunity to get to know students from other schools. Debating directives as a MEP, I learned a lot about roles in Political Groups and how decisions are made in the Parliament - a great experience overall. ” - Rima Rajesh“

I had so much fun and thought that this was a unique way to be pushed out of my comfort zone by representing a political party that had opposite beliefs to my own. I especially enjoyed the plenary where I pushed myself to speak up. It was such a cool challenge to think on our feet and communicate effectively with 150 others. ” - Sam Dryden