During Week 2 of Term 4, our incoming Year 11 Student Support Leaders, Secondary School Captains and House Captains attended a two-day leadership retreat designed to inspire, equip, and grow them in their roles.
Held at the Wollongong Leisure Resort, with generous support from the Wollongong Reformed Church who kindly provided access to their facilities, the retreat focused on developing Christian leadership grounded in character, service, and spiritual growth.
Students engaged in powerful devotions led by Dan Kroon (Minister, Wollongong Reformed Church) and Dave Matthews (Minister in Training) , exploring themes of self-control, integrity, and sincerity in leadership. Keynote sessions were delivered by Mr Simon Lainson (Principal) , Mrs Melinda Sharpe (Deputy Principal) , and Miss Heather Mansley (Director of Wellbeing) , offering practical Godly insights and encouragement for the year ahead. The program also included breakout sessions tailored to each leadership area, giving students the opportunity to reflect, collaborate, and prepare for the unique responsibilities they carry.
Here’s what some of our student leaders had to say:
“The student leadership camp was a great experience for maturity and growth in my personal faith. It allowed me to understand how to lead as a servant leader. I learnt to hold close to values of self-control and integrity, being authentic and strong in character. My biggest takeaway was when Mr Lainson said, ‘Leadership falls down when character comes into question.’”
— Josh Olsen
“The 2025 leadership camp was a valuable, fun and enriching opportunity for the new ICS leaders to deepen our understanding of the importance of integrity, humility, and servant-heartedness within our roles. I am especially grateful for the teachers who came along and contributed to the fun and positive environment, making it a truly special experience. Overall, camp has made me even more excited for the year ahead and the chance to serve as a leader—for God’s glory and the good of our ICS community.”
— Jemima Dombkins
This retreat was a truly worthwhile experience, one that not only strengthened leadership skills but also deepened faith, built community, and prepared our students to lead with purpose and conviction in the year ahead.
Mrs Melinda Sharpe
Deputy Principal
