For Broadrick Secondary's student leaders, the close of end-of-year exams signalled the beginning of a months-long leadership journey. Over the following months, Kingmaker partnered with them to build the leadership foundations they would need to adroitly plan and execute the 2026 Sec 1 Orientation for their incoming juniors.

After a thorough consultation to understand the needs of the student leaders, we designed an Orientation Planning Programme based on Broadrick’s existing leadership framework and structure. From the early planning stages to the final execution of the Orientation Day in January 2026, we journeyed alongside two groups of student leaders: the Orientation Planning Committee (Student Councillors) and the Orientation Group Leaders (OGLs). 

How Can Student Leaders Start Planning for Orientation?

Focus: Project Management Skills for the Orientation Planning Committee (Student Councillors)

Role of Orientation Planning Committee (Student Councillors): Manage the overall direction and execution, lead their team with confidence and structure.

Common Struggles Faced: We found that some student leaders were unsure how to approach the planning process, with a few underestimating the amount of work required. Others were also quite reserved in sharing ideas, preferring to stick with approaches that felt safe and had worked previously.

What we covered: Through 2 sessions on Project Management Skills, lead trainer Benjamin guided the student councillors through the key stages of planning a large-scale event such as orientation, as well as strategies for effective delegation and balancing responsibilities within the team. Covering areas from event planning and logistics to risk management, the sessions addressed crucial aspects of project management and helped students identify potential gaps in their planning. To reinforce their learning, Benjamin also conducted experiential activities where the planning committee experienced the workflow firsthand while identifying areas for improvement along the way.

How Can Student Leaders Effectively Engage their Orientation Groups?

Focus: Facilitation Training for the Orientation Group Leaders (OGLs)

Role of Orientation Group Leaders: To effectively lead and engage small teams, resolve conflicts, and handle different profiles of students. 

Common Struggles Faced: We found that the OGLs were uncertain about how to manage their orientation groups and prepare engaging activities for their juniors. Some were also unsure how to tackle unexpected changes and adapt their game plans accordingly.

What we covered: For the OGLs, our lead trainer Joelyn conducted 2 sessions to guide them in facilitation skills, equipping them to create a memorable orientation experience for the Secondary One students. Through planning engaging games and learning conflict management strategies, the OGLs developed the skills needed to create a supportive and positive environment for their juniors. Joelyn also incorporated role-play activities where the OGLs practised facilitation in different scenarios, helping them become more empathetic and adaptable leaders who can respond effectively to diverse student profiles and last-minute changes.

What were some Challenges Faced by the Student Leaders During the Orientation Dry Run?

After the workshops, it was very important for us to make sure that the student leaders can translate their learning to the actual planning and execution of the orientation programme. 

Dry Run: The Pre-Game Anxiety

For the dry run, the student leaders engaged in roleplay to experience a rehearsal of the orientation as both a student leader and a participant. Naturally, a few doubts emerged during this segment, especially when they put what they learnt into practice. We observed there was still unclarity surrounding:

• What are their exact responsibilities?
• Are the prepared logistics suitable?
• How do they ensure a smooth programme flow?

Some student leaders grew anxious about the inconsistencies between their original plan and the actual execution. We validated their concerns and prompted them to focus on one issue at a time, veering them towards problem-solving.

By identifying and bridging their learning gaps during this dry run, the student leaders worked on specific areas of improvement and grew more confident in executing the actual programme. 

Booster Session: The Final Check-In

The day before the actual orientation, we conducted a booster session to check in on the students’ progress. 

To ensure everyone was aligned on both the big picture and their individual responsibilities, we walked through the entire programme flow and addressed any last-minute queries. By the end of the session, we were heartened to observe that the mood of the team was quite positive, and everyone seemed to be in the right mental space for the next day!

D-Day: From Planning to Execution!

Months of hard work and preparation finally paid off as the Secondary 1 Orientation 2026 came to fruition. The student leaders took pride in their roles – from ensuring smooth backend operations to breaking the ice with their orientation groups – and conducted a memorable orientation for their juniors. 

Beyond the facilitation and project management skills acquired, it was equally important that they have learnt about themselves and how to work together as a team. 

We are so proud to witness their growth to become steadfast and resilient leaders. Well done, Broadricians!