Student Leadership Conference 2024

Last week, we successfully hosted our first Student Leadership Conference, bringing together enthusiastic nominated students who demonstrate leadership qualities in college.

The event focused on students working with like-minded peers to enhance their leadership skills. Students actively engaged with our high-profile keynote speakers, Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, and Kathryn Burn, Entrepreneur who appeared in BBC's The Apprentice. Jonathan Reynolds MP spoke about his journey from youth to a member of parliament and his experience with being a leader, whereas Kathryn Burn explored her journey with starting a business. They asked thoughtful questions and participated in discussions.

Students also participated in a number of workshops; leadership qualities workshop led by our Vice Principal, Sheridan Lewis, as well as workshops with academics Veronica Vienne and Ruth Brooks from the University of Huddersfield, who covered the topics of leadership and sport and leadership skills.

Event organiser, Rachel Smirke, Director of Curriculum and Progression, said: 

"The Student Leadership Conference 2024 was an absolute success with those students invited fully immersed in the day. Speakers brought to life the skills needed to be a successful leader and inspired students to follow their dreams in the future. It was a proud day seeing students engage with keynote speakers confidently and ask mature questions. The students represented the college well and we know that one day they will inspire others in successful careers!"

Our Centre Principal, Lisa Richards also commented:

"We have wanted to run a Student Leadership Conference for some time and what a fantastic day it was, from start to finish!  The event started and ended with high profile guest speakers whose personal leadership journeys inspired our students to take their own next steps with confidence and ambition. Students were professional, articulate and participatory in all activities and represented themselves and the college superbly. I am so pleased that Ashton Sixth Form College is playing a part in preparing our future leaders."

The Student Leadership Conference 2024 not only enriched the students’ educational experience but also reinforced the college’s mission to empower the next generation of leaders. We plan to make the leadership conference an annual event as such a success this year!