The Year 12 Retreat this year focused on the theme of ‘Servant Leadership’ and was based on the piece of scripture from Mark 10:45. Students participated in sessions to establish the key aspects of servant leadership and to inwardly reflect on what this means for them as they move into Year 13. Sam Brebner, spoke to students about what makes a great leader and shared the video clip of Jake Bailey, who was the Head Boy of Christchurch Boys. Mr Dalton also asked the students to consider what makes a good leader and to personally evaluate which leadership attributes they bring to Aquinas College Community. Key discussions were around humility, influence instead of authority and collaboration. “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” C.S. Lewis
Students also participated in Adoration and Reconciliation as they reflected on the Parable of the Lost Sheep and our current Religious Education unit ‘Created for Love’. They were asked to call to mind their relationships and to evaluate how they were willing the good of others. We were grateful for Father Philip and Father Rico joining us to hear confessions. The retreat concluded with a Mass on Friday, which was celebrated by Father Prakash.
Between sessions students were given the opportunity to relax and to participate in activities, such as kayaking, paddle boarding and archery.
The students overall had a very rustic, country experience where they were able to inwardly reflect on who they are as an individual. Over the two days they were supported by Mr Kennedy, Mr Skelton, Mr Smith, Mr Roberson, Mr Dalton and Mrs van Zyl.
Nic Scott’s reflection on Servant Leadership
“The ability to lead from the back. Setting aside ego and personal gain in place of humility. It incorporates a range of perspectives in order to best serve the interests of a collective, constructing an environment for others to succeed. A leader must grow their character alongside the scope of their vision, although this doesn’t necessitate being seen as a figurehead/leader of a movement… Taking the first step requires courage and a drive to act for the common good rather than a narcissistic desire for power.”
