Having returned to Epsom College from study leave, L6th form students from all 12 Houses took part in a Leadership Training Day on Thursday to prepare them for life in the U6th next year.
This training is seen as important for the development of individual students and their ability to work together within their own peer group and be effective role models in the House and school.
Boys from Fayrer, Forest, Propert, Carr and Granville Houses enjoyed a visit to Arena Pursuits, a team-building and outdoor pursuit centre in Flimwell, East Sussex. Working in groups under the guidance of an instructor, they took part in a variety of challenging but fun exercises.
On their return to College, the boys undertook further leadership training sessions in their Houses, finishing the day with a BBQ for some, or pizza for others, before watching the first match of the Football World Cup.
Girls’ Houses explored various styles of leadership with role play and activities to further develop their responsibilities for next year. Crawfurd girls travelled to Woking to complete an Apprentice-style challenge and on their return created a charter that they all agreed to follow.
At the same time, newly-appointed College Prefects took part in an intensive training course. The one-day workshop, led by Team Thinking, gave them the opportunity to take part in a number of well structured physical and mental challenges.
The College values the input from its team of prefects and understands the importance of a training programme that enables them to develop the skills necessary to carry out their duties.
Prefects need the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals – not just other pupils, but teachers and parents too. Whether assisting tutors in the day-to-day running of the Houses, organising group events or offering a support network for younger pupils, they need a range of skills to be truly effective.
“We view these training sessions as absolutely crucial in developing skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives, not just for this year,” said Deputy Head Paul Williams, who oversees the Prefect training programme.