The morning began in homerooms, where students examined SPC’s tradition of service‑centred leadership. Guided by their teachers, they considered how leadership grows through everyday choices that strengthen community and build trust. This quiet and intentional start set the tone for a day anchored in purpose.

A highlight of the program was the keynote session featuring two guest speakers. Yolanda Saiz, CEO of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, shared the values that guide her leadership, shaped by years of work across commercial, government and non‑profit sectors. She spoke about qualities such as hard work, compassion and humility, noting that her path into senior leadership unfolded through service rather than ambition. Her reflections offered students a thoughtful sense of leadership that develops through character and commitment.

Students also heard from proud Old Boy Christian Sleiman (’18) and former College Vice Captain. Christian reflected on his own leadership journey, including a challenging period in Year 11 that required resilience and a strong sense of connection to those around him. Now a Senior Business Banking Manager at NAB, he encouraged students to lead with steadiness and integrity, reminding them that authentic leadership often forms during moments that test us.

The Q&A panel offered Year 11 students the chance to hear from leaders who are walking the path they will soon step into. Members of the 2026 Student Leadership Team (Francesco M, Marco L, Chris M and Jack A) were joined by a Year 12 black tie leader, Andrew T, whose contribution highlighted the influence of students who lead through action rather than title. Their reflections were thoughtful and grounded in lived experience, touching on how they manage competing commitments, navigate moments of tension, step forward when help is needed and recognise opportunities that shape their final year.

The day concluded with the Recommendation Liturgy, where Acting Principal Mr Adrian Byrne offered a thoughtful reflection on servant leadership and the responsibility involved in nominating peers for future roles. It was a fitting end to a day that invited students to consider not only who they hope to become as leaders, but how they will serve their community.

Year 11 now moves forward with a strengthened understanding of leadership grounded in service, ready to contribute meaningfully to the College in 2027 and beyond.