Imagine your child returning from a gruelling 21-kilometre trek across rugged terrain, tired but beaming with newfound confidence and a sense of accomplishment. This is the transformative power of “The Desert Walk,” a cornerstone of The Way Christian School’s Summit Leadership Programme.
The Desert Walk is no ordinary hike. Students embark on an arduous 21-kilometre to 42-kilometre trek through challenging terrain, carrying heavy loads including backpacks, tyres, wooden poles, and water. This physical ordeal is designed to test their endurance and build resilience.
“When our daughter returned from the Desert Walk, we saw a noticeable change in her confidence and ability to tackle challenges,” shares the parent of a Grade 9 student. This transformation is a common theme among participants.
Upon reaching their campsite, students face another challenge: constructing their own shelters with limited resources. This exercise in problem-solving and teamwork is followed by a sparse meal – often just raw potatoes or onions – teaching gratitude and adaptability.
The following day brings devotions, talks, and activities carefully crafted to build students up spiritually and emotionally after the physical challenges. As one Grade 11 student puts it, “It was tough, but I’ve never felt more accomplished. The Desert Walk showed me what I’m truly capable of.”
Perhaps one of the most coveted aspects of the Summit Leadership Programme is the maroon blazer awarded to qualifying learners. This blazer – a physical representation of the challenges overcome and leadership skills acquired – isn’t easily earned.
Different levels of achievement within the programme are recognised through specific braiding on the blazer. This visual representation serves as a constant reminder of personal growth and a source of pride for students who have risen to the programme’s challenges.
Why It Matters
At its core, the Desert Walk is an intense experience designed to push students out of their comfort zones. It’s a carefully crafted experience where students learn to push through physical and mental barriers, developing grit and determination. By working in teams and overcoming obstacles together, students naturally develop leadership skills. Furthermore, the experience instils Christian values, reinforcing perseverance, generosity, and self-sacrifice in a tangible way. Students are prepared for real-world challenges, as the skills and mindset developed during the Desert Walk translate directly to future academic and professional situations. Additionally, these shared experiences of intensity forge strong friendships and a sense of community among participants, creating lasting bonds.
A Progressive Journey
Over its five-year course, the Summit Leadership Programme incorporates two Desert Walks. The first, in Grade 9, focuses on responsibility and goal-setting, with students navigating a predetermined route over several days.
In Grade 12, the programme culminates with the students summiting a mountain as a team, reflecting on their school careers and aspirations.
The programme, when possible, also extends beyond school grounds with interschool Desert Walks. These experiences expose students to peers from different schools and backgrounds, mimicking the diverse environments they’ll encounter in higher education and the workplace.
For those eager to follow along with this transformative experience, mark your calendars for the upcoming Desert Walks:
- Girls: 25-28 November
- Boys: 29-31 November
The Desert Walk exemplifies The Way Christian School’s commitment to developing well-rounded, resilient, and principled leaders. By choosing our Summit Leadership Programme, you’re investing in your child’s future, equipping them with the skills and values they need to thrive in higher education and beyond.