Year 13 Dean, Nicola Wynne, had the pleasure of attending the Dale Carnegie award ceremony. Three students, Hanna Maloni, Shaandeep Singh and Jessie Garrett learnt so much about themselves and leadership.

Mrs Wynne said it was lovely to hear all three speak about what they learnt, their goals, and their advice for others. Such an amazing celebration! Below Jessie and Shaandeep share their reflections. 

In the last week of Term 2 Hanna, Shaandeep and myself were fortunate enough to attend the Dale Carnegie leadership course. I would like to thank the Acorn Foundation and Katikati College for providing this amazing opportunity. Over three days we met and worked with 26 other Year 13 students from schools around the Bay of Plenty. Speaking on behalf of the three of us, I believe that we all learnt a range of valuable lessons that we will be able to use in various situations throughout our life. I personally found the conversation stack a very useful tool that taught me how to confidently begin a conversation, as well as maintain one with a range of different people. The golden rules of Carnegie in regard to being a leader were also very helpful and interesting. We were involved in many group activities and role plays that encouraged us to push beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. I would highly recommend that students apply for this valuable opportunity, as it is a course that I am sure you will utilize for the rest of your life. (Jessie)

This programme has been very beneficial to me as it has provided many techniques I can use out in the real world. By me being a part of this programme I have really improved my self-confidence, along with learning other techniques I can apply to be a successful leader in the future. (Shaandeep)