Year 9 students at St James College embarked on a journey of self-discovery and leadership development during their annual camp retreat.

Held at the college’s Maroon Dam campus, affectionately known as Jimmies on the Dam, students engaged in reflection experiences to help them gain a sense of the importance of positive well-being in leading others.

The students participated in activities designed to know themselves better, acknowledge their unique experiences and backgrounds, and become aware of their emotions and personal values.

Acting Assistant Principal Identity and Head of Faculty Faith Studies Mathew Silao led the retreat and said the theme of ‘letting go of control’ was designed to help bring ‘a greater sense of peace’.

“Every student at St James is their own self leader with many important qualities which make them successful,” Silao said.

“The ultimate goal of self-leadership is emotional wellness.”

“It’s about understanding and responding to your own emotional needs to gain an overall sense of positive well-being in order to lead others,” Silao added.

Filled with engaging, practical activities such as canoeing, hiking, meditation, and self-reflection, students took time to consider the importance of letting go and finding inner peace in themselves. Through these experiences, they were empowered to embrace their emotions with a renewed sense of self-awareness.