Gordonstoun Students Shine at the 73rd Harvard Model United Nations
Wednesday 04 February 2026
Ten Gordonstoun students travelled to Boston to take part in the 73rd Harvard Model United Nations, joining over 3,500 young delegates from around the world. The students embraced every aspect of their experience with energy and determination.
Attending the Olympics of the MUNs
Ten Gordonstoun students swapped the Moray coast for the snow-laced streets of Boston to take part in the 73rd Harvard Model United Nations Conference. Joining more than 3,500 delegates from across the globe, they stepped onto one of the most prestigious stages in the MUN calendar. Over the course of four intense days, the students represented Cuba, Eritrea, Peru and even the Apple Board of Directors.
Often described as the “Olympics” of the Model United Nations world, the Harvard Model UN is no ordinary conference. Delegates are expected not only to understand their assigned country’s policies but to embody them, negotiating, debating and drafting resolutions on some of the most complex issues facing the international community. This year’s agenda ranged from the ethical use of artificial intelligence in healthcare and cybersecurity to human trafficking, foreign political interference in elections and preventing the militarisation of outer space.
Laura Schofield, Teacher of Languages, said:
“We were one of only two schools from the UK and out of 3500 delegates, which is a really big deal.
“Our students conducted themselves impeccably, and for so many of them, it was their very first conference.
“To have put themselves forward to participate in a public speaking event like that in the first place is nothing short of mind-boggling!
“My biggest reward was seeing them turn their nerves at the start of the trip into excitement and passion throughout the event, and for them to come rushing out of their committees to tell us about the blocs that they had formed and the alliances and the strategies they were forming to get their resolutions passed.
“The experience of public speaking, learning about world affairs and competing on such a high level will stand them in great stead for the future.”
Despite temperatures plunging to minus 16°C, spirits remained high. On Friday morning, the delegation braved the cold for a snowy guided tour of Harvard University’s historic campus. Saturday evening offered a different kind of energy, with a vibrant cultural extravaganza celebrating the many nationalities represented at the conference, followed by a dance that provided a well-earned chance to relax after days of intense debate. The closing ceremony on Sunday brought special recognition for Gordonstoun.
Aidan V, winner of the Diplomatic Commendation, said:
“Harvard Model United Nations was my first attempt at Model UNs in general; it was something I always wanted to try but hadn't had the opportunity to actually do.
“Despite my relative inexperience, it was an incredibly fun event, and I was aided through the entire process by Mrs Schofield and Mr Moore.
“Boston itself was stunning but bitterly cold in the winter, and the campus of Harvard was quite imposing in person.
“My highlight was being able to meet other students from around the world and being able to discuss the similarities and differences between our countries.
“Overall, I absolutely loved the experience and would love to do more Model UN.”
Awarded a Diplomatic Commendation for his outstanding contribution as the delegate of Peru in the Commission on Social Development, Aidan debated policies that post-conflict nations and regions could implement to prevent further outbreaks of conflict. As this was his first-ever MUN conference, the commendation marks an exceptional achievement.Reflecting on representing Cuba in the Special Political and Decolonisation Committee, Franz K said:
“I was in the double delegation specpol and represented Cuba. My partner and I created a position paper showing the interests of Cuba.
“I thought even more fun than the debating was meeting new people and making connections.”
Megan S, who represented Eritrea in the World Health Organisation, also reflected on the depth of preparation required. She said:
“Participating in the Harvard Model UN Conference 2026 was such an incredible experience – one of my most profound takeaways from it was the commitment of young people from all over the world to diplomacy and communication.
“I gained so much from the trip, from improving my understanding and articulation of real-world issues to leadership and teamwork skills.
“I represented Eritrea in the World Health Organisation, where we discussed regulations surrounding research programmes involving human subjects.
“Mr Moore and Mrs Schofield were so supportive throughout the whole research process, providing me with resources and helping me understand how to format my position paper and preliminary information. They both encouraged me throughout the entire trip, supporting my involvement in all kinds of committee debates.
“Another one of the highlights of the trip was the opportunity to travel to America and spend time in Boston. This included going around the city with friends, both from school and those I met there, as well as getting a tour of the gorgeous Harvard campus. It was truly an amazing experience and one I'll always remember.”
Every student played a vital role in their committee, drawing on extensive research and preparation undertaken in advance of the conference. Beyond awards and accolades, the true success of the trip lies in the confidence the students gained and the friendships they formed.We are incredibly proud of them all.
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