On Monday 86 Stage 3 students from across the Diocese came together for the inaugural Creative Leaders Summit, hosted by Aspire.
The summit marks an exciting new chapter in the Creative Leaders initiative, which was launched in 2025 to amplify student voice in the creative arts. Since its inception, nominated students have met online twice each term with Aspire Artistic Director Anna Kerrigan, sharing feedback and ideas to help shape creative arts opportunities across the Diocese. Students have also played an important role in championing the arts within their own school communities.
In response to feedback from last year’s cohort, the program has expanded in 2026 to include a face-to-face summit, designed to launch the year’s work and strengthen connections between student leaders. The gathering set the tone for the year ahead, with students embracing their role as advocates for creative arts in their schools.
Throughout the day, students participated in a series of dynamic workshops led by the Aspire team, exploring a range of art forms and creative practices. The workshops encouraged collaboration and imagination, while also providing a platform for students to share their perspectives on what creative arts opportunities could look like within their schools and across the Diocese.
Students were eager to contribute their ideas and connect with like-minded peers.
“I loved the whole experience, it was so fun and exciting. The teachers are all so fun and kind,” one student shared.
Another reflected, “I enjoyed learning about Creative Arts and Aspire.”
“I enjoyed meeting new people and learning about what the team did,” said a third participant.
The summit is just the beginning. Creative Leaders will continue to meet online with the Aspire team twice each term, ensuring their voices remain central to future planning and programming. As part of their involvement, students will also be invited to an exclusive backstage experience at the 2026 Aspire production and receive complimentary tickets to an evening performance.
