Intersession: Exploring Growth, Grit and What Lies Beyond Our Comfort Zone

On Thursday, October 1, LCS students took part in a half-day of Intersession learning, with activities designed to encourage reflection, build leadership skills and explore the connections between personal growth and stepping outside our comfort zones.

Students in Grades 10 and 11 gathered in the theatre for a session with singer-songwriter and JUNO Award nominee Peter Katz, who shared his personal story and explored the connection between vulnerability, learning and growth.

Through stories from his own life, Peter spoke about navigating difficult experiences during high school, discovering a passion for music and finding the courage to pursue it. When he first considered performing at an open mic night at university, he waited months before signing up. Even then, he froze when it was time to perform. His experience offered students a reminder that pursuing something meaningful doesn't always feel comfortable, and that the things we care about most can also make us feel vulnerable.

Peter encouraged students to think intentionally about their dreams and the steps they can take to pursue them, rather than simply waiting for things to happen. He left students with a question to consider: What's on the other side of your discomfort? Who will you be? What will you learn?

The session ended in true LCS fashion with a singalong of Peter's The Camp Song, backed by four LCS student guitarists. It was a fitting close to a conversation about finding your passion, taking risks and discovering what can happen when you put yourself out there.

Grade 9 students were introduced to the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a globally recognized program that encourages young people to develop independence, perseverance and leadership through community service, skill development and outdoor adventure. Students also took part in a Growth, Grit and Gratitude workshop, exploring ways to approach challenges and reflect on their personal development.

For Grade 12 students, the morning included a debrief and reflection on their Algonquin Expedition, alongside a continuation of their Grad Leadership Conference. These sessions offered time to reflect on shared experiences and consider how the lessons learned can carry forward into their final year at LCS.

Across the morning, students were encouraged to reflect on who they are, what matters to them and how they can keep growing through new experiences. Whether discovering a new passion, taking on a challenge or learning from an experience with their peers, Intersession creates space for students to connect their learning with life beyond the classroom.