Students are appointed as a head of government or foreign minister of a Commonwealth member state, or a special envoy from an observer organisation and participate in a simulation of a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.[2] Delegations usually consist of two students from each participating school. They debate a host of topics, from human rights to climate change, bringing the perspective of the government they represent.
Delegates also participate in a model Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group scenario, where they are tasked with resolving a burgeoning conflict or crisis situation involving member states.
Delegates can also put their names forward to be considered for the role of National Student Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting Secretary-General.[2] The successful applicant will, as the real Secretary-General of the Commonwealth does, chair all the conference plenary sessions, encourage delegates to form resolutions on the points of debate, and present an opening and closing address to assembled delegations, invited guests, and Commonwealth High Commissioners accredited to New Zealand. The Commonwealth Secretary-General is responsible to all heads of government and plays a key role in the direction of the Student Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and agenda issues.
The Student Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting press corps represents the role the media play at international conferences. They conduct interviews and press conferences with country delegates and produce written and cinematic content about the Student Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting proceedings.[2]
Common Leaders' Day is a one-day leadership development programme for senior high school students. Participants are immersed in a range of workshops aimed at equipping them with practical skills they can use to define their personal leadership styles. They learn about the importance and purpose of the Commonwealth and its values in an ever-changing world.[3]