As educators at Le Grand International School, one of our foremost responsibilities is not just to impart academic knowledge but to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped with life skills. Among these, leadership stands out as a crucial attribute. Leadership isn’t confined to holding positions of authority; it’s about problem-solving, effective communication, decision-making, and inspiring others. It’s about preparing our students to thrive in the ever-evolving global landscape. School activities are the perfect breeding ground for fostering leadership skills. From group projects to student-led events, these activities go beyond classroom walls to teach lessons that textbooks never could. As someone deeply involved in our students’ journey, I’ve seen countless transformations firsthand, and I’m delighted to share how Le Grand International School, the best ICSE school in Dehradun, helps students build leadership skills through a myriad of activities.
Student Government: A Platform for Voice and Action The student council at our school serves as an ideal platform to teach leadership through responsibility. Elections are conducted annually, allowing students to campaign, present their ideas, and gain the trust of their peers. The process itself is a valuable lesson in democracy, teamwork, and public speaking. Once elected, student council members take the reins of various school initiatives, from organizing cultural events to addressing student concerns. These responsibilities teach them to balance priorities, manage time effectively, and work collaboratively. Watching these students evolve into dependable leaders who consider the needs of others while making decisions, is truly inspiring. Teamwork in Sports is perhaps one of the most effective ways to foster leadership. Our school’s sports teams provide students with opportunities to lead, whether as team captains or in informal roles within the group. Being a leader on the field requires quick thinking, strategy, and the ability to motivate others, especially during challenging moments. At Le Grand International School (LGIS), we encourage every player to develop their voice, not just the designated captains. The experience of working towards a shared goal, handling wins with humility and losses with grace, equips students with the resilience and interpersonal skills they need to lead off the field as well.
Clubs: Nurturing Passion and Initiative Clubs are another excellent avenue for developing leadership. From the Science Club to the Drama Society, these student-led groups offer ample opportunities for members to step into leadership roles. Take, for instance, the Environmental Club at our school. Under student leadership, this group has initiated projects such as waste segregation drives, tree planting campaigns, and awareness sessions on sustainable living. Every member is encouraged to contribute ideas, but leaders emerge as those who take initiative, organize the logistics, and rally their peers to act. These experiences teach students how to manage a team, handle challenges, and turn ideas into tangible results—all essential skills for future leaders.
Community Outreach Programs: Leadership Through Service Leadership is also about empathy and understanding the needs of others, which is why we emphasize community outreach programs. At Le Grand International School (LGIS), students participate in activities like volunteering at local shelters, conducting workshops for underprivileged children, and organizing donation drives. These programs teach students to see the world from different perspectives and highlight the impact they can make as individuals. Leading a service project requires logistical planning, fundraising, and teamwork. More importantly, it instills a sense of responsibility and compassion—key traits of a good leader. Cultural and Academic Competitions, whether academic, cultural, or artistic, are opportunities for students to showcase their talents and build leadership skills. Events such as debates, science fairs, or school plays require students to take charge, plan meticulously, and deliver under pressure. For instance, during our annual school drama production, students not only act but also manage costumes, stage design, lighting, and marketing. The production is a team effort led by a group of student directors, and every aspect of the process builds their confidence, creativity, and leadership potential.
Mentorship Programs: Passing the Test A unique initiative at our school is the student mentorship program, where senior students guide their juniors in various activities. Mentoring requires patience, communication, and a willingness to lead by example. This program helps both mentors and mentees grow, as mentors learn to take responsibility for others’ growth and mentees are inspired to step into leadership roles in the future. Integrating Leadership Lessons into Daily Life At Le Grand International School, we believe that leadership lessons extend beyond structured activities. Every interaction—whether it’s mediating a disagreement between classmates, organizing a group project, or assisting a teacher in managing an event—can be a lesson in leadership. We also emphasize reflection. After every major activity or event, students are encouraged to evaluate their performance, understand what went well, and identify areas for improvement. This reflective practice helps them internalize the lessons they’ve learned and prepares them for future challenges.
The Role of Teachers and Mentors As a teacher, I consider it a privilege to guide students on this journey. Whether it’s by providing encouragement, offering constructive feedback, or simply stepping back to let them find their way, our role is to empower students to realize their potential. For instance, during last year’s annual science fair, a group of students wanted to work on an ambitious project involving renewable energy models. While I provided initial guidance, I let them take charge of planning, coordinating resources, and presenting their findings. Watching their confidence grow through the process was immensely rewarding. The Transformative Impact of Leadership Activities Over the years, I’ve seen students transform into leaders capable of inspiring and guiding others. I’ve seen the shyest students blossom into confident speakers and the most hesitant ones become proactive problem-solvers.
Leadership isn’t something that develops overnight, but with consistent opportunities, mentorship, and encouragement, every student has the potential to lead in their unique way. At Le Grand International School, the best ICSE school in Rishikesh, we are committed to creating an environment where leadership is not just taught but experienced. Through school activities, we are not just preparing students for the next stage of their academic or professional journeys; we are preparing them to lead, innovate, and make a difference in the world. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years as an educator, it’s this: Leadership is not about titles. It’s about action, impact, and integrity. And it’s heartening to know that we are nurturing a generation of leaders who embody these qualities.
