This was followed by an exciting talk about Saint Stephen’s amazing Science programme and topped of with a boom from their fiery science demonstration. After a quick snack, we participated in an engaging workshop, turning horrible ideas into great ones.
Our idea was a straw that dissolved in liquid that quickly turned into plastics that dissolved in liquids reducing the impact we have on the environment. After arguably the best part of the day, being lunch, we participated in an extremely funny and exciting show, showcasing the future of science with Dr Karl! The future looks good, with humans potentially being immortal and having the ability to put greenhouse gasses back into the ground where it came from.
We came with lots of ideas for future science events and activities to implement within the Somerset community, and can confidently say we all had a blast!
“As long as you’re talking, you’re not fighting.” This Ted Turner quote represents the essence of what I believe everyone took away from Rotary MUNA last Saturday: as future leaders of the world, we must use the oration and advocacy skills learned through these activities to achieve a better world and a brighter future.
Somerset College was represented by three teams this year:
Representing China: Isla Clancy (11), Montana MacFarlane (12) and Shauna English (11). Representing Japan: Nada Wilson (10), Brianne Major (10) and Leigh Amores (10). Representing New Zealand: Guilia Provenzano (10), Alyssa Littleton (12) and Olivia Sutton (11).
New Zealand received particularly favourable comments from the judges, who praised us for our dual commitment to our nation’s perspective and UN goals. Being a delegate for New Zealand at such a sad time allowed myself and my teammates to really focus on how the recent Christchurch disaster did and still does affect the nation.
Understanding the United Nations’ role in maintaining international peace and security allowed each team to find out how significantly involved the UN is with today’s political, economic and social issues. My peers and I developed an awareness of the United Nations by debating about topical world issues through this Rotary youth programme.
The day began with an introduction to MUNA, which aided in calming everyone's jitters – Model UN debate has a unique format and many participants were brand new to the activity. A heated discussion on 'The Question of Global Climate' soon followed, with all delegates finding their passionate voices quickly. Other resolutions debated were, 'Regulating International Migration' and 'Win-Win Cooperation for the Common Cause of Human Rights'. The MUNA event became what felt like a true United Nations Assembly.
I would recommend MUNA to anyone. The wonderful refreshments and mingling with new people throughout the day kept the mood informal, and not only are you able to step outside your comfort zone and have new experiences, but you meet new people and build on your confidence. All Year 10 to 12 students should definitely sign up and see what it’s like next year.
I would also like to give many thanks to Miss Burgess, who was a wonderful Secretary General on the day, as well as a great mentor to all the Somerset teams prior to MUNA. Her guidance made the day even more exceptional!
Under 6 travelling to Tweed United for their first game. Somerset scored a total of four goals. Great teamwork between Emily, Sion, Ruben, Mayuko, Abhiveer and Hamish.
Under 7 Green played verse Mudgeeraba. Our Year 2 students made it difficult for the opponent and scored eight goals! What an effort from Connor, William, Zhander, Chase, Paxton, and Harper.
Under 7 Blue played vs a strong Palm Beach. The Palm Beach team played last year in the U6 competition. We are proud of Benedict, Henry, Edward, Logan, Alex and James. They were able to score one goal and had opportunities to score more.
Congratulations everybody with your first game.
Unfortunately, our Under 9 was cancelled. They can’t wait to play their first game!
Saturday March 30 our Somerset Teams play on the Somerset Track'n'field. Come down and support the Spartans Football Club! Games are played between 8.30am and 10.00am.
Please check our Schoolbox page for more information.
We focus on the process of improvement. We do not lose, we either win, or learn. Keep up the great work Spartans!
U15 Girls: Cienna BaileyCienna has shown some fantastic leadership lately by trusting her skills, backing her ability, and showing great effort and confidence on the court. Her strong play has also landed her a spot on the South Coast Basketball Team, a great achievement for any student. She is valuable on both ends of the floor for her team, and continues to develop and grow as a versatile player. Keep up the great work Cienna!
U11 Boys: Panteli CharisouPanteli is a great teammate for anyone to have on their team! He shows relentless effort in defence, regardless of the situation or conditions. Coach Peter Correa has praised Panteli's intensity in defence lately. In addition to his defence, Panteli is also one of the rare pass-first players around these days. He would rather set up a teammate, than score himself. His court vision and knack for hitting teammates with good passes provides good ball movement and easy scoring opportunities for those around him.
Any students interested in joining Somerset Spartans Basketball Club, please contact Mr Whish-Wilson or Coach Dean Marais for more info and details on how to sign up.
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