Equipping young leaders at Nowra Anglican College to grow, flourish and serve with confidence
Backbones are essential! Without one, the human body would collapse into an indistinct, floppy mess. The spine is not just a structural support; it plays a pivotal role in stabilising, motivating and enabling coordinated action.
Debra Baker, the Junior School Chaplain at Nowra Anglican College considers CRU’s FIT training program (Followers in Training) to be the backbone of their CRU Groups. She takes her Year 5 and 6 student leaders to FIT twice a year to be equipped in Christian leadership and empowered to put these skills into practice at school. This is a valuable opportunity for her students to develop maturity, confidence, initiative, teamwork, servant-hearted attitudes and to put their faith into action.
Debra runs two CRU Groups each week — one for Year K-2 students and another for Years 3-6. She shares why their CRU Groups are so important, “These groups remind students that faith isn’t just something learned in a classroom, but something that can shape the way we treat others, respond to challenges, and contribute positively to the life of the school.
“One of the most special aspects of our CRU Groups is seeing older students walking alongside younger ones, making them feel included and encouraging them to love Jesus. They are building meaningful relationships, positive connections and a strong sense of community in the school.”
This year, a group of twelve Year 5 and 6 girls are enthusiastically serving as leaders for both CRU Groups. Debra is so thankful for their heart for Jesus, their willingness to serve and their eagerness to grow their leadership skills. “We have wonderful leaders running the show, making my job super easy. The leaders work together to organise a roster, present Bible stories, run games and help facilitate activities for the younger students. They are growing in communication, organisation and public speaking while also learning how to encourage and care for others. Seeing them give up their own lunchtime to serve others shows such incredible maturity. Our CRU leaders are wonderful role models who encourage inclusion, kindness and faith in action. Praise our Lord!”
Recently, Debra took a group of 18 students to FIT on the NSW South Coast. “FIT training equips our CRU leaders with practical tools to lead effectively, work as a team and be a positive influence on their peers. It also allows students to connect with other young leaders from different schools, helping them feel inspired, encouraged and supported in their faith and leadership journey.”
Debra has seen firsthand how FIT has helped her student leaders back at school. “Leaders have included fresh ideas into their storytelling, introduced new games and looked out for quieter kids or ones who are unsure, and made them feel included.
“A standout moment was when eight Year 5 girls took the initiative to split our K-2 group into small circles for discussion groups and prayed beautifully with the younger children. What a blessing!”
Debra is so thankful for CRU’s support. She considers the Schools Ministry team the backbone of her ministry and growth too. “I would be completely lost without CRU. When I first started this journey at Nowra Anglican College 10 years ago, I had never even seen a chapel service, let alone felt capable of running one.
“Over the years, the consistent visits and training days (including Teachers’ Conference held earlier this year) have equipped, inspired and encouraged me in my role which I love. I am so deeply thankful for CRU. I truly value the opportunities to soak up their wisdom every time we connect.”
To find out more about Schools Ministry’s FIT training program, visit cru.edu.au/fit