As part of the Leadership programme at QAHS, each year, our Student Leaders head to the hinterland for a two-day, one-night leadership experience. The 2023 Student Leadership Retreat at Numinbah Valley Environmental Education Centre provided the opportunity for students to set goals, connect with one another, build trust and immerse themselves in experiential learning in an environmentally conscious way.
Beyond building leadership skills and team synergy, the outdoor setting of the retreat allowed us to continually reflect on the beauty of the Australian landscape and pay homage to the traditional peoples of this continent. Hearing stories about the historical and cultural significance of Numinbah Valley for Indigenous Australians allowed us to draw inspiration from the strength and endurance of the world's oldest living culture in our pursuit of making connections and enriching relationships for all QAHS students.
Students were also thoroughly engaged in the Unleashing Personal Potential (UPP) Leadership workshop which culminated in individuals pitching proposals for an idea they would like to see materialise at QAHS.
Here are a few reflective snapshots from our Student Leaders post-retreat:
“The Retreat enabled me to gain better knowledge about the land, as hearing Aboriginal stories was something very new to me. This then led to more consideration for and appreciation of the country we call home. Building new and better relationships with other Student Leaders also helped me to move beyond what is known and safe to me". – Matthew Kong
“The UPP workshop we participated in was really inspiring. I liked how the presenter linked concepts and ideas to practical games and activities which helped us in understanding and reflecting on our past experiences". – Yanyan Zhang
“Canoeing was definitely the most enjoyable part of Retreat for me. This was because I had never done canoeing before, and the experience of stepping outside of my comfort zone and doing something different really engaged me. It was also such an important experience because it allowed me to bond with the grade 10s and 11s more, thereby allowing for greater connection to take place". – Devam Raval
“I really enjoyed being taught some theory behind what kind of leader you are. This really helps when working in a team with other leaders so that strengths can be acknowledged and worked to. I had a wonderful time at Leadership Retreat and I'm very sad that this was my last one. I've now added to the memories and words I'll treasure forever". – Mia Bergh.
Marnie Chetter
Teacher of English & Student Leadership Coordinator