Project Description
The Senior Pupil Leadership Residential was designed to enhance leadership, communication, and team-building skills among the senior pupils at Levenmouth Academy. The event took place on the 26th and 27th of August and involved a series of workshops and activities focused on leadership and personal development. The goal was to empower pupils to become effective leaders, foster stronger relationships among the leadership team, and help them develop a plan for school improvement.
Partners Involved
- The University of St Andrews: This prestigious institution provided pupils with a taste of university life by hosting them at McIntosh Halls for an overnight stay. The university also conducted leadership and team-building sessions that allowed pupils to experience life on campus and bond through various activities.
- St Andrews Botanic Gardens: The Botanic Gardens hosted an educational workshop focused on environmental sustainability and biodiversity. Pupils had the chance to assist in monitoring wildlife by analysing owl pellets and identifying different species of rodents. This experience helped foster an appreciation for the environment while building practical scientific skills.
Both partners see value in working with young people through DYW Fife, as these activities help bridge the gap between education and real-world skills, contributing to the development of future leaders and responsible citizens.
Event Details
- Day 1: Activities at St Andrews Botanic Gardens and Team Building
- Pupils spent the first day at St Andrews Botanic Gardens learning about biodiversity and sustainability. They participated in hands-on activities such as analysing owl pellets to identify local wildlife.
- The morning session concluded with a campfire, where pupils toasted marshmallows and shared their personal interpretation of the school’s motto, “Believe to Achieve,” reflecting on how these values aligned with their own goals.
In the afternoon, pupils visited historical landmarks such as St Andrews Cathedral and participated in beachside team-building exercises. The activities, which included games like an invisible landmine exercise, a sandcastle competition, and rounders, focused on developing trust and teamwork. These exercises culminated in a spirited game of football, further fostering camaraderie.
- Day 2: University Life and School Improvement Planning
- Pupils stayed overnight at the University of St Andrews’ McIntosh Halls, where they got a feel for life on campus. On the second day, the group came together to draft their school improvement plan. The leadership team worked collaboratively to design a strategy they would later present to the school community.
Feedback from Participants
The event was well received by the pupils, with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Many appreciated the mix of learning and team-building activities, particularly enjoying the unique settings at the Botanic Gardens and the University of St Andrews.
- Simone Kelly: “My favourite thing was the campfire experience where we got to chip the wood, and light the fire then enjoy the marshmallows.”
- Amy Rodger: “Learning about different types of environments and how to help nature for the better.”
Feedback on the university sessions was particularly strong:
- Lily Marshal: “I really liked the beach bonding games we all played, it was great…”
- Amy Rodger: “The team-building activities within the common room at the university and the team-building activities at the beach—it really brought us together as a team.”
The pupils rated their experience at the Botanic Gardens an average of 8.75/10, underscoring the success of the programme in meeting its objectives of skill-building and team cohesion.
Conclusion
This programme not only helped pupils grow as leaders but also fostered a deeper connection with their peers, strengthening the foundation for future success within the school and beyond.