Year 11 Leadership Day 2025: Handing on the Torch
On Tuesday 19 August, Shore’s Year 11 students gathered for their annual Leadership Day, an important milestone that marks the beginning of their transition as the senior year group at Shore. The day was designed to challenge and inspire the boys to reflect on what it means to lead with character, humility, and purpose, and to prepare them for the responsibilities that come with being the leaders of the school in 2026.
A key theme of the day centred on the idea of handing on the torch, passing down Shore’s traditions and guiding virtues through leadership that is grounded in service, integrity, and respect for others. The boys were reminded that leadership is not about the tie or the title, but about initiative, values, and standing up for what matters, especially when no one is watching. They were challenged to be young men of character, to lead as a united group, and to set the tone for the school community—whether in classrooms, corridors, or cheering in the stands at Northbridge or at Head of the River.
The day began with a powerful reflection from Rev Benn, who spoke about servant leadership and the life of Jesus as the definitive example of leading through humility and sacrifice. His message set the tone for the day, reminding the boys that true leadership is about putting others first. Dr Collier, followed with a talk on leadership in schools, sharing examples of excellent student leadership and the importance of leading with integrity and humility. Mr Huw Blood, Head of Service Learning, spoke about service as a form of leadership, encouraging the boys to live out Shore’s values, kindness, humility, courage, and respect, through action and care for others.
Sam Warburton, Senior Prefect for 2024, shared his personal leadership journey, urging the boys to lead for the right reasons and to build genuine relationships with younger students through interest and care. His honest reflections on what worked and what was challenging gave the boys a real insight into the demands and rewards of leadership at Shore in Year 12.
A highlight of the day was the address by guest speaker Yvette Vignando, CEO of Mary’s House Services. Yvette spoke about values-based leadership and the importance of service through action. She challenged the boys to consider how they can take a stand against domestic violence and abuse by participating in the upcoming Mary’s House Walk. This year, Shore will march as a school team for the first time, standing in solidarity with women and children in crisis. The walk is a practical opportunity for the boys to live out the values they explored during the day, and more information can be found here.
Dr Andrew Mansfield and Mr Stuart McCormack also addressed the boys after lunch, speaking about the importance of character and integrity. They encouraged the students to stand firm in their values and to lead with consistency and courage during the most difficult and testing times as a leader.
The day concluded with House-based workshops led by Housemasters. These sessions gave the boys the opportunity to explore ethical dilemmas, discuss Shore’s leadership values, and learn how they can lead within their Houses. These conversations helped the boys reflect on their role as custodians of culture as House seniors, and how they can positively influence and mentor their peers.
The formal leadership process has now begun, with boys applying for House leadership positions and voting for school prefects. Every student in Year 12 will be called to lead, whether formally or informally, and the expectations are high. As they approach adulthood, with some turning 18 in the coming year, they are being asked to step up and model the very best of Shore’s character and conduct.
Leadership Day was a very important reminder that leadership is not just about what you achieve, but how you lead. We look forward to seeing this group rise to the challenge and lead with strength, humility, and respect.