From the 

Head of Junior School

Leadership

It was an absolute pleasure to celebrate the induction of our new Year 6 leaders for 2023 and our SRC leaders for Semester 1 over the last two weeks. These are important occasions to acknowledge and congratulate students as they step up and embrace the responsibilities that come with leadership. Schools have student leadership programs for several reasons. In the Junior School our aim is to develop the leadership potential of students by providing scaffolded and mentored opportunities for them to learn and practice leadership skills

The word leadership is often used but what does it really mean to be a leader for a 12 year old? Being a leader is not just about holding a title or being in charge. It's about the impact you have on those around you. It's about inspiring others to be their best selves and empowering them to reach their full potential. In the words of John Quincy Adams:

 "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader."

Leadership is a quality we all possess, no matter our age. As a leader we inspire, guide, support, and bring out the best in others. Leadership is not about being the boss or having power over others. It is about creating a positive influence on those around you, regardless of your position or title. As Junior School leaders, our students are tasked with building with others a safe and inclusive environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired. They are the role models that our younger students look up to, and their actions shape their attitudes towards leadership and responsibility.

So, what can our students do to be the kind of leader that inspires others? First and foremost, they can lead by example. This means embodying the qualities they want others to exhibit. Whether it's kindness, respect, honesty, or perseverance, they must live these values every day. At Kinross Wolaroi, leadership is based on the school values of respect, courage, resilience, inclusiveness, and commitment and the IDEALS of Round Square. Students must be prepared to take responsibility for their actions and learn from their mistakes.

One of the most crucial aspects of leadership is the ability to communicate effectively. As Junior School leaders, students need to articulate their ideas clearly, listen actively to others, and provide feedback constructively. They need to be approachable, responsive, and empathetic to the needs of their peers. Our Junior School leaders need to be good listeners. They need to understand it can be easy to get caught up in our own ideas and opinions. They need to know that the best leaders know listening to others is crucial to making informed decisions and build strong relationships. To be an effective leader, our students must be willing to learn continually. Seek out opportunities for growth and development, be open to feedback, and take responsibility for personal growth.

Our student leaders need to value collaboration and understand no leader can achieve success alone. It takes a team of individuals working together towards a common goal to truly make a difference. In this they are supported by teachers, parents, and other members of the community who work alongside them. Supporting, encouraging, and providing guidance: 

"Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge." - Simon Sinek

In the Junior School our leadership program fosters a sense of responsibility and accountability, promotes community service, and cultivates a positive school culture. By providing students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills, we are preparing our students for success in their academic, professional, and personal lives.

URL – https://geosnapshot.com/e/js-leadership-induction 

Password – 23JSLEADERS

Junior Icebreaker 2023

A wonderful event was held at the Greenhouse last week for families and staff to commence the new school year together. Thank you to our Engagement team and the P&F Association for their time in organising this event. It was an important opportunity to bring the Junior School community together.

URL - https://geosnapshot.com/e/icebreaker

Password – 23ICEBREAKER 

Kinross Wolaroi students making their mark 

At Kinross Wolaroi we value and strive for academic rigour. Students have a myriad of opportunities to engage in enriching learning experiences which in some instances the school provides or facilitates student access to them.  Please share with us your child’s interest, passions, and achievements by emailing junioroffice@kws.nsw.edu.au.

Inspiring a new generation of cricketers

Year 6 students Elizabeth Croft, Jimmy Jones, Aari Poole & Ben Knight caught up with former student, Phoebe Litchfield, prior to the women’s cricket game between NSW Breakers & ACT Meteors at Wade Park on Sunday 12 February. So lovely to see the our students supporting Phoebe and her teammates.

Orange Running Festival

Over the weekend staff, students and families participated in the Orange running festival. Well done to all who participated in the mile, 5km and in some cases both events.