“He who has never learned to obey cannot be a good commander.” Aristotle
Who would have thought that spending quality hours with inquisitive, invigorated 12-year old boys could be so refreshing and exciting? Kingmaker trainers rolled back the years as they spent a good two days with just over 40 Maris Stella High School (Primary) prefects for a training camp.
Riding on the belief that leaders can and should be trained well from a young age, the trainers guided the prefects through many challenging activities and games. Instead of stagnating in their ideas and beliefs, the prefects were thoroughly encouraged to learn how to listen acutely, reform their school of thought, and refine problem-solving processes. In this day and age of prevalent, accessible information sources, the prefects were taught not to rely on established solutions and answers that were already tested and proven.
Our young leaders were instigated not to “follow where the path may lead” but to “go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” (Harold R. Mcalindon). Cliche as that may sound, the trainers were able to prove to the prefects that a major weakness in our youth generation today lies in their inability, even unwillingness, to challenge convention and exercise creativity.
Throughout many failed attempts in the various activities, the student leaders realized that critical thinking alone was not always sufficient in problem solving – they had to put their creative juices together and work cohesively to generate fresh, plausible solutions. It definitely was learning through the hard way for them!
No one said leadership has to be individualistic – and that was why the prefects spent great amounts of time in vigorous activities that facilitated them to rely on each other, cultivate teamwork and camaraderie. Culture changing in Maris Stella had to being with the school leaders, which was also why the prefects dived deep into the meaning of their school values: the importance of diligence, discipline, loyalty & dedication and courage.
“The training is interesting and teaches us new values which are important for us as prefects.” Justin Kee
“It is very fun and engaging. It helps you to learn more about your values.” Ryan Teh
When the prefects are convinced and motivated to live out these core values in their very own school, they will most certainly be exemplary role models to both their juniors and peers. Listening to their thoughts and reflections, the trainers were heartened to know that the many of the boys intended to apply the lessons learnt from the camp to the areas of their prefectorial duties and personal life. This was as precious and compelling a learning experience to the boys as it was to the trainers!
Kingmaker Consultancy conducts dynamic, high-energy camps to cultivate teamwork and leadership. We believe that the nurture of 21st century leaders is imperative and paramount today – valuable and extensive learning outcomes can be achieved with a heterogenous pedagogy and competent training. Contact us to find out more how this may fit into your school’s plans for leadership development and team building!
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