National Success Leads BMS Sixth Form Students to Prestigious European Youth Parliament Conference Abroad 13 October 2025
Three outstanding sixth form students from Bedford Modern School have been selected by the Jury team at the National European Youth Parliament (EYP) Finals 2025 to represent the UK at the upcoming international EYP conference in Finland this January. Their selection follows an exceptional performance at the national finals, where they impressed judges with their eloquence, teamwork, and passion for political debate.
The European Youth Parliament provides a platform for young people across Europe to engage in political discourse, explore pressing societal issues, and develop solutions through structured debate. For Philip, Jess, and Eleanor, the experience has been transformative.
The School is immensely proud of the trio, whose dedication to debate and European politics has been nurtured throughout their time at BMS. This the culmination of debating experience for these students – from Model United Nations conferences in Year 10 and 11, to the very competitive regional EYP round at the University of Cambridge against top schools, the vast array of experiences facilitated by Bedford Modern School throughout their time here have been pivotal to them achieving this international success. Their achievements are a testament to our commitment to encouraging student voice, critical thinking, and global citizenship.
Eleanor shared how EYP has deepened her passion for debate and broadened her horizons:
“EYP has been such an amazing experience, immersing myself into a range of topics at regionals, then truly connecting with one at nationals, I cannot wait to see what the international session brings.
Debating has always been a passion of mine but this opportunity has been like no other as I’ve been able to surround myself with likeminded people. Liverpool was such a unique experience, the days were undeniably long but packed with so many moments that I’m sure will become lasting memories. From memes being shouted across the general assembly theatre for attention (which I can confirm worked) to doing the closing speech for my committee, EYP definitely goes far beyond a debating competition.
Without BMS, none of this would’ve ever been possible. When I initially attended the ‘audition’ debate, I never imagined I’d be going to Finland in January! So much credit goes to my politics teacher, Mr Baker, for allowing spirited debate during our lessons because without those opportunities across the year, I do not think I would have ever been able to build my skills to take me this far.
I absolutely cannot wait to represent the UK in a few months time, this is something I am sure I’ll never forget.”
Philip, who served on the Human Rights committee, reflected on the depth and breadth of the topics explored:
“My time at the European Youth Parliament National Session couldn’t have been better. Firstly, as someone looking to study Politics and International Relations at university, it gave me an opportunity to learn more about many of the most pressing issues facing the UK and the wider world, from homelessness and assisted dying, to common defence and the gender pay gap.
I was on the Human Rights committee, in which we looked at ways the EU could come together to tackle widespread human rights violations, both within our borders, and outside them. My time on the committee, and in the whole of the session more broadly, not only helped me hone my research and debating skills, but also helped me prepare for my university course, looking at how different countries, with differing policy aims can come together despite their differences and reach a consensus, the fundamental basis of International Relations.
But the event was not just an opportunity for more academia. It was an opportunity to meet so many new people, to hear about so many different experiences, and to watch your friend embarrass himself by begging our teacher for a later curfew. Its these opportunities which I look forward to in the international session in Finland next year. The opportunity to learn, to laugh and to make new friends.
These opportunities, and so many more, have all been made possible by BMS. Without the support of BMS, I wouldn’t have even found out about EYP, let alone participate, and it is something that I will be forever grateful for.”
Jess, who joined the Employment committee, tackled the complex issue of wage inequality:
“This summer, I partook in the European Parliament National Conference in Liverpool, debating and researching prevalent issues in our society today. Being on the employment committee, the topic we were given to write a resolution for was closing the gender and regional wage gap. Whilst researching this, I was most intrigued by the nature of women in Europe being socialised into lower paying career paths, a main source behind the reality of women being paid 12% less on average than men. To further this, I focused on the economic repercussions which this work-place gender imbalance burdens on society and worked with 9 other students across the country to explore possible propositions to eradicating this trend.
Through the general assembly, my public speaking skills and critical thinking were advanced and put to the test. Representing my committee in a summation speech was a great challenge as unlike other types of speeches given, the summation had to be written during the presentation of the resolution, developing my ability to perform under pressure and flexibility of thinking.
Overall, my time at the conference will remain an invaluable piece of experience, not only did it widen my knowledge in an area which falls under my future course of study, but more importantly it led me to discover my own potential in areas such as debating.
Lastly, I would like to thank my school for providing me with the opportunity, the support, and the encouragement. I would like to thank Mr Baker and Dr Boa, who sacrificed their own time making my participation in the event possible.”
Staff at Bedford Modern School have played a key role in supporting these students, providing opportunities to engage in debate clubs, mock parliaments, and enrichment activities. The school community celebrates this achievement as a reflection of the values and aspirations it instils in its students.
Here at Bedford Modern School we have long championed student voice and political engagement, and we are thrilled to see these values reflected in the achievements of Philip, Jess, and Eleanor. Their journey from classroom discussions to the international stage is a testament to their hard work and the nurturing environment provided by their teachers.
As they prepare to represent the UK in Finland, the entire BMS community sends its warmest congratulations and best wishes. Their success is not only a personal triumph, but also an inspiration to their peers and an exceptionally proud moment for the school.