Year 12 students hone leadership skills on inspiring trip to St Davids

This month saw the start of our current Sixth Form leadership programme, designed to cultivate future leaders equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges. This initiative is a cornerstone of the Sixth Form experience, aimed at ensuring students make a meaningful impact in the future.

At the beginning of October, Year 12 students embarked on an enriching two-night residential trip to St Davids in Pembrokeshire, Wales. This annual excursion marks the commencement of the leadership programme and serves as a vital opportunity for students to bond with their peers and staff.

Over the course of three days, students participated in leadership sessions focused on developing teamwork and communication skills. These activities also encouraged students to define the culture they aspire to create within the Sixth Form. The trip was not only about leadership development but also about building strong relationships and enjoying social activities. The students were blessed with glorious weather, allowing them to fully enjoy their surroundings. Highlights of the trip included visits to the historic St Davids Cathedral, scenic walks along the coastal path, swimming in the sea, toasting marshmallows around the campfire, and dancing late into the night.

Head of Year 12, Miss Morris, reflected on the benefits of the residential: “This truly was a fantastic trip- the students threw themselves into the activities and it was lovely to see them making firm friendships. They’ve come back a united cohort, ready to take on more responsibility within the school and to support each other as they progress through Sixth Form.”

Year 12 students enjoyed the chance to form new friendships and deepen existing ones. Petra said “I’ve come back feeling part of a community after such a fun trip in such a peaceful location” whilst Amelia considered it to be “the perfect opportunity to bond with the new students who’ve joined us and get to know them. The weather was amazing and it was just a really great time.”

The students also welcomed the leadership sessions. Tom believed “The leadership training definitely built my confidence after working in a group with people I wouldn’t normally hang out with.” Poppy said “When doing the leadership activities, I found it really inspiring seeing how all my friends envisaged what they wanted the sixth form to be.”

This memorable experience has set a positive tone for the year ahead, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among the Year 12 students. The school is excited to see how these young leaders will grow and contribute to both the school and the wider community. Towards the end of this academic year they will be able to apply for positions on the Sixth Form’s leadership team, Study One, giving them further opportunity to put some of the skills they have developed, into practice.