In Term 4 our Primary student community participated in an important learning experience with real life implications: student leadership elections. For this year's candidates, one attribute stood out above all others. Being a person who has demonstrated kindness was the key quality voters said they were looking for.
Students from Year 5 applied for School Captain and House Captain roles, writing and presenting speeches that shared their ideas, values and hopes for our school. As part of their academic studies, every Year 5 student writes a speech, and those who apply for leadership roles present theirs to the Primary community. It was a rich learning experience where all our Year 5 students were challenged to see their own potential and understand the importance of servant leadership.
“I went for school captain and giving a speech was a bit scary at first. But now I know that you can do it, just believe in yourself.” - R, Year 5
"It was nerve-wracking but the teachers say I have leadership in my personality and I can cheer people on. I think a good leader shows integrity and they help people." - Ada, Year 5
FAMILY REFLECTION QUESTIONS
How did you choose who to vote for? What qualities do you think make someone a good leader? How can you show leadership in your everyday life?
Our Year 2 to Year 6 students took part in the voting process. They learned what it means to listen well, think carefully and take their responsibility seriously. Throughout the process, students were encouraged to consider leadership as something deeper than a title, and they embraced this with maturity, showing care and thoughtfulness as they cast their votes.
Mr Moore reminded them, “Do not just listen to the words that are being said in the speeches, make sure their actions are backed up in the playground.”
“It was hard voting. They all sounded good but I could only choose three. I liked it though because we had so many options and it was fun choosing. I think a good leader is someone who would be kind and looking out for other people.” - Eli, Year 3
“I wanted somebody that is nice and kind and would not betray anybody. When you are voting, look for the kind leaders.” - Savannah, Year 3
“It was hard to vote because I know them all and they are all so good. I voted for the kindest people who are resilient.” - A, Year 3
“I looked for how I think the school could move forward. I voted for the person I thought was the most responsible but could also make the school really fun. My advice when you vote is do not just choose a friend, choose the person you think is best.” - Summer, Year 5
"A good leader is a person who helps people learn and grow." - Mabel, Year 5
“I liked getting to listen to people’s speeches and their ideas that could make our school better. I chose the most responsible person who had good ideas that are not crazy. I think a good leader is somebody who is responsible, respectful and is nice to everyone.” - L, Year 5
We are proud of every student who participated as candidates and as voters. Their courage to speak, their care in choosing leaders and their understanding of everyday leadership reflect the heart of our College community. No matter the result, each student learned something invaluable about character, responsibility and using their voice for good.
After the election speeches, Mr Bailey reminded our students, “Leadership is not just if you get a title like school captain. You can be a leader in your everyday life whether you have a badge or not.”
"A good leader is not thinking about yourself but thinking about others and being responsible and kind. Everyone can be a leader." - Layla, Year 6, 2025 Primary Captain
Our student leaders are elected by our student body and staff, and this is something we celebrate. It is one of the many ways we help students grow into confident, thoughtful and community-minded young people.
Our 2026 Primary Student Leaders will be announced at Primary Awards Night. Congratulations to all our candidates for your excellent campaigns and speeches!