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The Oscar Romero Leadership Award (ORLA)

Launching September 2026

College in the darkLaunching in September 2026, The ORLA programme, rooted in our Mission, supports students in progressing from awareness to critical thinking, and from action to meaningful impact, combining education, dialogue, and real community engagement. It will provide our college community with a strong platform to put Catholic Social Teaching into practice, with student leaders taking the lead, supported by the chaplaincy.

Vision

To develop socially conscious leaders who challenge injustice, promote equity, and create positive change through faith in action.

Core Values

  • Equity
  • Inclusion
  • Empathy
  • Civic responsibility
  • Courage

Goals

  • Build confidence and communication skills
  • Develop ethical, inclusive leadership
  • Encourage student-led initiatives
  • Prepare students for life beyond college

Enrichment

Programme Structure

1. Leadership Workshops

Half-termly sessions exploring leadership and social justice, including teamwork, public speaking, identity, inequality, and global issues.
Activities include discussions, debates, simulations, and guest speakers.

2. Community Action Projects

Students design and lead projects both in college and the wider community (e.g. charity events, awareness campaigns, volunteering, sustainability initiatives), presenting their impact at a final showcase.

3. Leadership Roles

Students take on real responsibilities such as Enrichment ambassadors, peer mentors, and student leaders to gain practical leadership experience.

Recognition

  • Leadership certificate (endorsed by our Partner – Liverpool Hope University)
  • Reference letter
  • Digital badge
  • Awards event

Impact

Success is measured through student reflection, participation, project outcomes, and progression beyond college.

How to Apply

Applications will open in September 2026. Please email Laeticia.Sibeh@aquinas.ac.uk for further information.