Late last year, more than 50 Ambarvale High students from Years 7, 8 and 9 volunteered to take part in a leadership program to improve the school experience.
The program, facilitated by MWLP and staff from the local high school, engaged the students in activities and discussions aimed at developing their potential and contribution to leadership.
As part of the program, the students recently attended a workshop at Campbelltown TAFE where they received training in design thinking, a structured approach to defining, refining and finding solutions to problems.
School principal Louise Barnott-Clement, addressing the group, said:
“It is important we offer our student leaders authentic challenges to engage with, and funding and resources to make their solutions real.
“If we don’t do this, student leadership is just a term, rather than a developmental opportunity.”
True to her word, Ms Barnott-Clement then surprised the student leaders with the announcement of an allocation of funding to help them achieve their objectives.
“Leaders are needed in all walks of life, particularly in the workplace,’’ Ms Barnott-Clement told participating students.
“By implementing powerful student leadership programs, we positively engage students in their school, and foster skills that will last a lifetime.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“When student voice is heard, and student leaders feel empowered to enact positive change, the culture of the whole school is improved.’’[/social_quote]
There was a high level of energy and interest displayed by the group during the entire workshop.
Students learnt to think strategically and outside the box.
“The workshop was interactive, cooperative and fun,’’ says Benjamin Cameron, one of the students who took part in the program.
“We learnt critical and deep thinking and how to work in groups to solve a big problem.’’
Dr David M Williams, MWLP Linking Youth CEO, facilitated the workshop.
“What an enthused, engaged and energetic group of young people,’’ Mr Williams said afterwards.
“The power of the potential in the group is infinite.
“I always stress to groups I work with in leadership development – it’s not what you are known as but what you are known for.
“In this case these students will be known for someone who makes a difference.’’
The students will now get to apply these techniques to seek solutions to their objectives within the school.
MWLP really enjoyed hosting this workshop and working with an amazing group of talented young leaders.