Ten BSB Nexus students from The British School of Barcelona recently travelled to Madrid to participate in Harvard Model Congress Europe (HMCE) 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious government simulation conferences.

As the only school in Spain attending, the BSB delegation joined students from more than 20 schools across over 10 countries, including Greece, France, Switzerland, Canada and Turkey. Among the participating schools was Doukas School in Greece, a fellow Cognita school.

The experience forms part of our unique ‘BSB Speaks’ whole-school oracy programme, a key pillar of our 2025–2028 School Development Plan.

A Standout Communications Performance
BSB students delivered an exceptional performance, returning home with four awards—a great achievement for a delegation of just ten students.

A Year 12 student received Best Speech in the Speak-Up Speech Contest and a Presidential Award in the Senate Judiciary Committee. While another Year 12 student also received a Presidential Award in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Also, a Year 13 student earned an Honourable Mention in NATO (Advanced Committee).

An Authentic Government Simulation
Founded in 1987, Harvard Model Congress Europe is run by undergraduate students from Harvard College and is widely recognised as one of the premier government simulations in the world.

Through debates, negotiations, trials and press conferences, students step into the roles of legislators, diplomats and policymakers to tackle real-world global issues.

The ‘BSB Speaks’ Programme
At BSB, oracy is an essential skill that enables students to express ideas clearly, think critically, and lead confidently. ‘BSB Speaks’ is a programme that develops students’ oral abilities (speaking and listening), helping them become articulate, confident communicators. It follows seven key expectations that guide the structuring of presentations and communication with clarity and authenticity.

Learn more about ‘BSB Speaks’ from James Petrie, Assistant Executive Principal, in this video.

Discover our range of Oracy opportunities for students from Early Years to Pre-University in our ‘BSB Speaks’ Oracy Booklet here.