Wellbeing - Senior School
2026 Young Leaders’ Afternoon Tea
On Wednesday 18 February, the Student Leadership Team had the privilege of hosting our Young Leaders’ Afternoon Tea, an event that brought together student leaders from across the wider school community. Stepping into the College Hall, guests were welcomed by familiar faces, complimentary lollies and the hum of conversation, immediately setting a tone that felt warm, relaxed and inviting.
While the afternoon remained grounded in its leadership focus, this year marked a refreshing shift in approach. Rather than centering solely on structured instruction, the event embraced collaboration, connection and shared experience, creating space for leaders not only to learn, but to engage, interact and grow alongside one another.
We were fortunate to hear from guest speaker Stephen Coniglio, former captain of the Greater Western Sydney Giants. Speaking with honesty and composure, he shared insights drawn from his journey at the elite level of sport. One moment that stood out was his reflection on becoming only the second captain in AFL history to be dropped from his side, a humbling experience that, as he admitted, was “not a feat to be proud of”. Yet it was precisely this setback that strengthened his message. Leadership, he explained, is not defined by titles or uninterrupted success, but by resilience in the face of adversity.
When asked by Francesco Mazza for his best piece of advice to young leaders, Stephen Coniglio reflected on a simple message written in a card by his cousin on his 21st birthday… “Don’t risk everything… but sometimes one is worth everything.” He explained that leadership is not about reckless decisions, but about recognising the moments that demand courage and conviction. Also, the choices that may feel uncomfortable in the short term but ultimately shape character and growth. The message resonated as a reminder that meaningful leadership involves calculated risks guided by purpose and values.
The afternoon featured a series of interactive activities designed to encourage collaboration and creative thinking about leadership. One activity placed students in groups to participate in a budget-style game, requiring strategic decision-making as they worked to create their vision of the “best leader.” This exercise highlighted the importance of planning and compromise.
Next, students engaged in a puzzle activity in which each participant received a piece of an image depicting a real-world leader. To complete the picture, they had to interact with others in the room to locate matching pieces. The activity not only encouraged communication but also reinforced the idea that leadership is rarely a solitary endeavour and success often depends on cooperation and shared effort.
Finally, participants completed a drawing challenge that functioned as both an art experiment and a trust exercise. One student studied an image and attempted to recreate it by drawing on the back of another person’s paper, which was then passed along like a chain. The results ranged from impressive interpretations to what could only be described as creatively abstract renditions. The activity acted as a reminder that clear communication and trust are essential components of effective teamwork. Without these qualities, even simple tasks can become chaotic, as some groups discovered. The activity reinforced two core leadership lessons, trust in those around you and the importance of communicating ideas in a way that others can understand and build upon.
The Young Leaders’ Afternoon Tea demonstrated that leadership is not confined to titles or formal positions, it is found in actions, collaboration and a willingness to learn from others. From the insights shared by guest speaker Stephen Coniglio to the interactive activities that required teamwork and communication, the afternoon reinforced that leadership is a skill developed over time through experience and reflection.
Students left the Hall with more than ideas about leadership, they left with a deeper understanding of what it means to work together, take responsibility and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether through strategic decision-making, creative problem-solving or trust-based collaboration, the event highlighted that leadership is a shared journey, one that requires both individual effort and collective support.
As the Student Leadership Team looks toward future events, the success of the afternoon serves as a reminder of the value in bringing leaders together to exchange ideas and inspire one another. Moments like these shape not only capable leaders but also stronger communities.
A special thank you must be extended to the entire Student Leadership Team for their unwavering support and dedication in bringing this event to life. Their enthusiasm and commitment to student leadership ensured that the Young Leader’s Afternoon Tea was not only possible but meaningful.
A particular note of gratitude must go to Ms Santiago, whose vision and encouragement made this opportunity a reality. Her belief in the potential of student leaders provided the foundation for an event that brought together young leaders from across the community to collaborate, learn and grow. Without her help, the chance to create and deliver an initiative of this kind would never have been granted. Her dedication to fostering leadership and empowering students is a testament to the positive impact educators can have in shaping the next generation of leaders.
Michael Bartorilla | Student Wellbeing Prefect
Jacob Kelava | Year 8 Prefect
Australian School Boys Bench Press Championships
We are delighted to share the exciting news of Year 12 SPC student, Oscar Dillon, and his success at the Australian School Boys Bench Press Championships, where he proudly represented St Patrick's College and achieved an impressive 3rd place [bronze] finish.
This accomplishment reflects Oscar's incredible dedication, strength and discipline - qualities he continues to develop through his focused commitment to training.
Congratulations on this achievement, Oscar!
James Biviano
Year 12 Coordinator