Building Leaders, Shaping Culture: The St Albert’s College Leaders’ Retreat

At St Albert’s, leadership is more than a title—it’s about responsibility, culture, and community. Our Student Leadership Team plays a crucial role in ensuring Albies remains a place where residents feel safe, supported, and inspired.

This past week, we gathered for our annual Leaders’ Retreat—a time to reflect, learn, and prepare for the year ahead. Leadership here requires building connections, navigating challenges, and leading by example.

Kicking Off with the Principal’s Dinner

The week began with a welcome dinner at the Principal’s Residence, where our College & Student Executive and Block Residential Advisors reconnected and set expectations for the retreat. Cooking dinner was a small way to show appreciation for their dedication.

Emerald Beach: Strengthening Foundations

At Emerald Beach, we focused on team dynamics, values alignment, and event planning. A discussion on Patrick Lencioni’s Five Dysfunctions of a Team reinforced the importance of trust, constructive conflict, commitment, accountability, and results.

Legacy & Leadership

Back at College, the entire Student Leadership Team explored James Kerr’s Legacy, learning from the All Blacks about how great leaders create lasting impact through culture and commitment.

Team Building & Leadership Development

The retreat continued with team-building, practical training, and key conversations about College culture. A highlight was an incredible dinner at Uralla’s Bolt Inn, reconnecting after the summer break over great food and hospitality.

Key Sessions:

✅ First Aid Training – Emergency preparedness.
✅ History of St Albert’s – Learning from past leadership.
✅ Cultural Awareness – Fostering respect and inclusion.
✅ SASH & Gender-Based Violence Awareness – Building a safer community.
✅ Fire Evacuation Training – Crisis readiness.
✅ Leadership with Dr. Deb Kelliher – Performing under pressure.
✅ Event & Committee Planning – Organizing successful activities.
✅ Touch Football with the Principal & Executive Dean – Because leadership should be fun!

A Culture of Engagement & Respect

The commitment and engagement from our student leaders was inspiring. Discussions were robust yet respectful, all focused on creating the best experience for our residents.

As we welcome First-Year students, we know our leaders are ready to foster a strong, supportive, and values-driven community.

Thank you to all involved—we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make!