Our Brussels MUN trip has been a truly unforgettable experience, filled with challenge, humour, achievement and, above all, aspiration. From the moment our delegates arrived at Heathrow, they represented Battle Abbey School with maturity, resilience and ambition. Whether calmly enduring a three-hour passport queue, navigating the European institutions of Brussels, or stepping confidently into debate chambers at the conference, they consistently rose to every occasion.
Highlights included visits to the European Economic and Social Committee, inspiring talks from EU and UNHCR representatives, committee debates at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and memorable evenings exploring the city together. Our delegates embraced every opportunity with remarkable enthusiasm: Armand firing off questions to guest speakers, Elizabeth rewriting position papers from scratch, Henry perfecting speeches, Lily refining arguments, and Emma and Elizabeth handling unexpected country reassignment issues with extraordinary composure and independence.
What stood out most was the aspiration our pupils demonstrated throughout. They were not simply attending a conference; they were imagining themselves in positions of leadership, diplomacy and influence. Across long sessions, lively debates and countless coffee breaks, they grew in confidence, formed international friendships, and began to see themselves as young people capable of shaping conversations far beyond the classroom.
Of course, there were lighter moments too: Belgian waffles, bowling, quiz-night heartbreak, suitcase disasters, Henry’s infamous egg-and-suit incident, and a final “traditional Belgian meal” at Itsu before flying home.
While no formal awards were won, Mrs Gatward and I could not be prouder. The true success of this trip was witnessing seven exceptional young people aspire boldly, support one another wholeheartedly, and represent Battle Abbey School with distinction.
