2024 Student Leadership Retreat 

On the 23rd- 24th  of November, the upcoming Leaders of 2024 had the opportunity to attend the ‘All School Student Leadership Retreat’ at Kiah Ridge, Tamoor. There, College Captains, House Captains and SRC from Yr 7 to Yr 12 were able to explore their roles and responsibilities led by the emerging Yr 12 Captains. 

We would like to acknowledge and give thanks to Dr Kennaugh, Father Kevin, Mr Houseman & Mrs Cooper for encouraging, challenging and supporting us in leading this retreat.

Here are some reflections students have shared from the Retreat: 

“Leading this all school retreat has been an excellent bonding time for the Juniors and Seniors to really learn more about each other. It was such a new experience as a Yr 12 being able to lead the future of our school, to encourage and most importantly, having fun. Having the opportunity to once again be a part of the School Leadership really gave me the chance to utilise all the skills I’ve learnt from all my school years and to pass it down to the next leaders and captains of St Andrews. I’ve learnt to recognise and support various skills and talents each and every leader has and to work with them to better enhance us for next year. ” 

- Athieu Majok, SRC (Publicity) Yr12

“Having the opportunity to be a part of this retreat helps me understand what it takes to be the best leader or role model I aim to be. Throughout this retreat I have realised that we can’t focus on only one person’s idea to fulfil things, but it takes teamwork and effort to make things happen. I’m very thankful and pleased for this experience as it put a permanent place in my heart for this school, which I have received from Mrs Cooper and Mr Houseman, because this helped me share so many memories with others who I have never met before and helped me socialise throughout these two days. I’m excited to work with my SRC’s in my grade and with my portfolio group for 2024.”

- Filinita Aho, SRC (Publicity) Yr8

“The Leadership Retreat this year was truly magical. There were tons of new connections made and interactions were booming throughout both days. The Yr12 SRC were incredibly organised and engaging, helping the younger grades to also put in their all. I could really tell how everyone stepped out of their comfort zone to make new friends and voice out their ideas. The vibes were also truly immaculate. As leaders, we are the voice for those who are too shy to speak up or cannot make their stand. I wholeheartedly look forward to a new year with this amazing leadership group! Simultaneous clap in 3..2..1..”

- Elyscia Barret, SRC (Publicity) Yr11 

“I wasn’t sure what to expect leading up to this year’s Leadership Retreat. Now I can say that my excitement was justified, perhaps even more so. It was a new, almost scary, experience to begin with; especially being plunged into the deep end with people I had never met before. Yet little by little, I grew used to this new community I became a part of. Everyone I talked to—whether in my cabin, during icebreakers, or in mixed table groups—was so incredibly welcoming. I will forever cherish the memories made in those two days, the kind messages shared with each other, and the familiar faces I can find back on campus.”

- Jobella de la Cruz, SRC (Publicity) Yr 11

“As this year’s Leadership Retreat drew to a close, I could conclude only one definitive fact - while my potential to be a leader had always been waiting to escape fickle confines, this event had led me to become a true leader of St Andrews College. And leadership in the St Andrews School Community is not one driven by self-interest, but one in which all people use their skills and talents to pitch in and support each other. Bill Gates once said that, “As we look into the next century, leaders will be those who inspire others.” Judging by the results of the Retreat, this new generation of school leaders indeed shows great promise!”

— Lucas Baginski, SRC (Publicity) Year 9 

“The 2024 leadership retreat was a transformative experience, weaving unforgettable memories into the fabric of our leadership journeys. Nestled amidst the serene backdrop of Kiah Ridge, the retreat offered a perfect canvas for collaboration, growing self identities and of course, leadership. Engaging workshops and thought-provoking discussions, so meticulously planned by the Year 12 Student Representative Council, forged connections with all students, stimulating a welcoming and sincere environment for all. The memories made during those two days were full of laughter, shared aspirations, and the collective pursuit of growth for our College Community.”

— Nikki Gasendo, SRC (Publicity) Year 10 

Athieu Majok