On Friday 8th March a group of Year 12 students represented Jesmond Park Academy at the European Youth Parliament North East Regional Session at Newcastle University, along with teams from seven other schools across the North East.
Prior to the event each team is assigned a resolution to propose or oppose, which requires the students to meet regularly to research and discuss. On the day the team is expected to put forward their motion as well as engage in rigorous debate, not just with regards to their resolution but also all of the others. It was a full on day with students needing to be 'on their mettle' the entire time, listening carefully to the debates and being ready to contribute at any given time. There were 6 debates in total, with the JPA team allocated the proposing argument to a motion regarding the use of AI in the workplace. This was a tough allocation, but the team met during lunchtime and after school for several weeks beforehand; researching, nominating spokespeople, and forming their speeches and points for debate.
The JPA team were outstanding. Every team member relished the chance to engage in debate, expressing themselves clearly, eloquently, and in some cases, with real passion! We are over the moon to announce that the EYP Jury has selected the JPA team as one of two teams to attend the EYP National Session at Liverpool Hope University later on this year, with the potential to later represent the United Kingdom at International Sessions. This is a huge achievement and we are exceptionally proud of them!
