Leadership at Lakefield begins with belonging.
From their first weeks on campus, students are encouraged to take initiative, lift others up, and contribute to the life of the community.
Leadership emerges naturally in a community where boarding and day students live, learn, and collaborate closely. Whether guiding a House event, mentoring younger peers, or shaping Chapel conversations, they learn that leadership is a way of being.
Through our Leadership, Character, and Values (LCV) framework, students build skills intentionally from year to year—developing a Confident Self in Grade 9, Stewardship in Grade 10, Citizenship in Grade 11, and Leadership in Grade 12. Together, these stages help students grow in confidence, courage, and integrity as they learn to make a meaningful difference.
At every stage, leadership at The Grove connects personal growth with community purpose, helping students lead with heart, empathy, and authenticity.
Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders
Leadership at Lakefield grows year by year—from self-awareness to service to active citizenship.
Leadership in Action
Leadership opportunities at Lakefield exist in every Grade.
From Houses to school-wide initiatives, students take on meaningful roles that strengthen community, build confidence, and nurture empathy. Every experience—large or small—helps them understand that real leadership means service to others.
Senior-in-Charge (SIC) Program
Every Grade 12 student takes on a Senior-in-Charge role, an opportunity earned through trust and experience. SICs help guide daily school life, model integrity, and mentor younger peers. Working in areas such as School Life standards, athletics, food services, and more, they connect students and staff, ensuring that The Grove’s values of respect, responsibility, and care are lived each day.
Grade Representatives
Elected by their peers, Grade Reps serve as the bridge between students and school leadership. Representing Grades 9 to 11, they bring forward ideas, plan activities, and help shape the tone of campus life. Through collaboration and communication, they strengthen inclusion, school spirit, and a sense of belonging across grades—learning what it means to lead with both initiative and empathy.
House Leaders
Each House is guided by a team of student leaders from Grades 9–11, selected for initiative and school spirit, with dedicated roles in Arts & Athletics, Belonging, Service Learning, Sustainability, and Wellbeing. Together, these students foster connection, celebrate diversity, and contribute to a vibrant House culture through collaborative, creative leadership. Their work strengthens each House as a community and gives younger students meaningful opportunities to develop and express their leadership in a supportive community.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
A globally recognized program that builds leadership, service, and resilience through personal challenge. Students set goals in community service, skill development, and outdoor adventure, earning Bronze, Silver, or Gold recognition along the way. Through the program, they develop independence, perseverance, and self-awareness—qualities that align with Lakefield’s belief in learning through experience and reflection.
Many students complete their expeditions through Lakefield’s Outdoor & Experiential Adventures.
Leading Through LearningTurning leadership theory into practice. In Grade 12, students have the chance to lead by doing—through three distinctive, application-based courses that merge academics, mentorship, and real-world impact. Each one cultivates voice, responsibility, and teamwork in different ways. 
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School Life ClassBuilding community through collaboration and spirit. Students in the School Life Class help shape the rhythm and spirit of The Grove. Bringing together students chosen for their citizenship, initiative, and leadership potential, the class works through three connected pathways—the personal leadership journey, team development, and community impact. Students apply their skills in real time, designing experiences that strengthen connection and joy across the school. Each year, they plan and deliver more than 80 community and spirit events, including major all-school traditions like Haunted Halls, Winter Carnival and Gladiator Day, creating opportunities for every student to feel included and engaged. Along the way, they develop communication, emotional intelligence, and collaboration skills that prepare them to lead with confidence wherever they go.  “School Life is where we learn that leadership can also be joy.” — Grade 12 Student
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Community and Connect ClassFostering inclusion, empathy, and student voice. A cornerstone of belonging, the Community and Connect Class brings together students selected for their curiosity, initiative, and commitment to inclusion. As the creative force behind Chapel—community time—they research ideas, curate messages, and lead reflections that spark dialogue and connection across the school. They also facilitate conversations on inclusion and school culture—and bring joyful energy with moments that celebrate diversity, connection, community and global events. Working closely with faculty, staff, and peers, students strengthen their organizational, communication, and emotional intelligence skills—learning to listen deeply, collaborate thoughtfully, and engage the community with purpose. In the process, they build the confidence and empathy that define authentic leadership.  “We want students to leave Lakefield with the ability to listen, reflect, and respond with empathy—skills that define strong leaders and good humans.” — Peter O’Grady, Director of Leadership
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Outdoor Leadership ClassLeading with courage, teamwork, and respect for nature. The Outdoor Leadership Class (OLC) is the capstone of Lakefield’s four-year Outdoor Education program, challenging students to lead peers on multi-day canoe, hiking, and winter camping expeditions. Building on skills developed through earlier courses, they practise environmental ethics, navigate risk, and learn to serve their team in multiple roles—as self-leaders, peer leaders, and active followers. Each journey calls for sound judgment, effective communication, and teamwork in dynamic environments. Rooted in Lakefield’s belief in learning through challenge, the OLC builds confidence, resilience, and a deep respect for the natural world.  “You discover who you are when you help others find their way.” — Outdoor Leadership Student
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