On the 2nd July, young leaders from all the secondary schools across the Diocese of Brentwood met at The Campion School for the annual Student Leadership Conference. Gathering for a day of celebration, reflection and inspiration.

Students heard from Bishop Alan, who provided his story of leadership and how his faith has inspired and encouraged him in the roles that he has held. During his Q&A section, students were keen to ask him about what continues to motivate him as a leader within the Church. The bishop’s input for the day was concluded with a blessing of the student leaders, as they renewed their commitment to Christ-centred leadership.

The conference took inspiration from Christus Vivit (‘Christ is Alive’) the Papal exhortation to young people, written by the late Pope Francis in 2019. From this, Harry Rawcliffe (The Campion School) and Eamonn Hyde (St Mark’s West Essex), provided reflections from the document, stories of young saints (including Joan of Arc, Carlo Acutis, St Francis of Assisi and St Kateri Tekakwitha) and how this all relates to the Pilgrims of Hope, Jubilee Year. 

The day was a resounding success, with students particularly enjoying the opportunity to feedback and network across schools, where they discussed their leadership plans and how they intend to implement them within their own communities.

 

When asked to think of a message for leaders today, one student stated: 

“Lead by listening to those around, always ensure that everyone is appreciated and feels as though they are a valued member of one’s community.”  

Another said:  

“Don’t focus on doing what seems best for you, but rather what is best for those that you lead; a true leader serves their people.” 

 

Siân Thomas-Cullinan, Director of Caritas Diocese of Brentwood, said:  

“The day was a powerful gathering of dedicated and thoughtful student leaders, all of whom expressed their commitment, insight, and genuine engagement with the conference programme. It was clear from the conversations, questions and experiences shared that there was a wealth of knowledge and potential in the room. We look forward to seeing how each young leader continues to grow and lead in their communities.” 

Caritas Diocese of Brentwood would like to thank the staff and students at the Diocesan Secondary Schools for their attendance and commitment. A special thank you to the Campion School for hosting and the staff at Walsingham House at Abbotswick for their support on the day. Finally, we wish to thank Cathy McKenna and John Adams from the Diocesan Education Service for their collaboration in organising the conference this year and we wish Cathy a wonderful retirement.