Presbyterian Schools Youth Conference

Invited Year 8 student leaders came together last week to take part in the annual Presbyterian Schools Youth Leadership Conference – a conference that focused on creating a legacy of service, the impacts of service and ways in which the students can create service opportunities that are meaningful and sustainable.

Hosted by Saint Kentigern, the two-day conference saw students from fellow Presbyterian schools, Rangi Ruru Girls' School, St Andrew’s College, Scots College and St Cuthbert's College, join our own students from the Boys’ School, Girls’ School and College, to bond and work on ideas together.

On arrival, the students were piped to the front of Roselle House by Year 8 student, Charles Adams and then challenged by the Boys’ School Kapa Haka group, led by Year 8 student, Sam McLeod.

The day began with ice-breakers to become familiar with one another and in the following sessions, the students unpacked the concept of service, discussing what it meant to each of them and their schools. They also shared their experiences in taking part and witnessing service in their own communities.

 As a fun exercise, they performed skits in groups to demonstrate how service could look and different ways to offer it. Following morning tea, the students had the privilege of welcoming guest speaker and Jucy Group Director, Tim Alpe to speak to them about innovation and his experience in the world of business.

Over lunch, the students learned about the Social Enterprise, Eat My Lunch as they enjoyed one of their meals and the satisfaction of knowing that by purchasing a meal, they were also providing a meal for the less fortunate. Later, they travelled to Glen Innes School to learn about The Breakfast Club and the great work they do in the community, helping families in need with supplies and food.

Left feeling inspired, the students brainstormed different ways their own schools could serve others in their community. The following day, they travelled to the College to present their ideas to their Chaplains and Principals and took part in several leadership activities, before sharing lunch at Bruce House and hearing from Presbyterian Youth Ministry, Anne Overton speak about serving others.

The conference was a great opportunity for our students to further develop their knowledge of service and leadership. Each student left feeling inspired, each taking something different away from their experience. The students will now share their knowledge, ideas and learnings with their peers.