High School 3/11: Students learning about Servant Leadership

As students learn, our desire and aim is to provide experiences that will allow them to develop and flourish throughout their whole lives, not just in their academic pursuits. We desire to see our students with attributes that are pleasing to God and serve to benefit both the individual and the broader community.

One of our School Attributes is: Serve and lead for the benefit of others.

This week, our newly elected High School Student Leadership (SLC) group for 2024 participated in leadership training. The training focused on developing individuals who prioritise the needs of others, fostering a positive and inclusive community. They were challenged to reflect on the qualities that define a good leader. 

Servant leadership training for students is a valuable educational approach that instills the principles of empathy, compassion, perseverance, and selflessness in future leaders. During the training, the students explored how Jesus is the greatest example of a servant leader. 

Throughout the training we used the 4C’s framework, which includes: 

1. Convictions: These are the deeply held beliefs held about who we are, where we are, what matters in life, what’s wrong with the world, and what the solution is.
2. Character: This encompasses an individual’s values, virtues and motivations. Leaders build trust when their actions are in line with their convictions and values. Character traits such as honesty, reliability, servanthood and humility are vital. Your character grows and flows from your gospel convictions. 1 Timothy 16 tells us to watch our lives and doctrine closely. We need to ask ourselves if our character is shaped by the gospel.
3. Courage requires a deliberate decision to act. Do what is right for those they lead rather than what is easy. Conviction and confidence in God, who makes and keeps His promises, enabled leaders to step out of their comfort zone.
4. Competencies:  These are the essential skills required to fulfill responsibilities and achieve objectives. 

During the training, Students learnt to listen actively, show hospitality, be resilient, and offer their support to those in need. They developed a strong sense of social responsibility, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges. They were given opportunities to practice teamwork and collaboration; both essential skills in any leadership role.

By emphasising service and the wellbeing of others, students develop a strong ethical foundation. They learn that leadership is not about authority, but about facilitating the growth and development of those they lead. This approach creates a culture of trust, respect, and mutual support, which paves the way for more ethical and effective leadership in the future.

Ultimately, servant leadership training equips students with the skills and mindset to be compassionate, socially aware leaders who can make a positive impact in their communities and the world.

Regards

Anthony Hudson

High School Deputy Principal

 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)