Students & Wellbeing

More than a badge: The value of Student Leadership

As Term Three commences my mind turns to the election of the 2027 Student Leaders. The process is long and rigorous. Some will be elected and some will not. Many will choose not to apply. So why do we do it?

Senior students elected to leadership positions such as Captains and Prefects play an important role in creating a positive, inclusive, and successful school culture. The election of student leaders provides a democratic process through which students can take part in choosing peers whom they respect, trust, and believe will represent them effectively. As a result, those selected have often demonstrated qualities such as responsibility, integrity, resilience, service, and the ability to work collaboratively with others.

One of the key reasons for appointing elected student leaders is that they serve as role models for younger students. Captains and Prefects are expected to embody the school's values and standards, setting a positive example through their behaviour, attitude, and engagement in school life. Their visibility encourages younger students to aspire to similar standards of achievement and character.

Educational research highlights the importance of student leadership and peer influence. 

Professor John Hattie, one of the world's leading education researchers, notes that “Teachers and students use the power of peers positively to progress learning,” emphasising the significant impact that student leaders can have on the culture and learning environment of a school.

The advantages of having elected senior leaders are substantial. Firstly, they provide an important link between students and staff. By listening to student concerns and communicating them constructively to school leaders, Captains and Prefects help ensure that student voices are heard and valued. This strengthens trust, engagement, and a sense of belonging throughout the school community.

Secondly, leadership positions provide valuable opportunities for personal growth. Students develop communication, teamwork, organisation, problem-solving, and public speaking skills that prepare them for future leadership roles beyond school. As educational leadership expert Michael Fullan observed, 

“Leaders have to provide direction, create the conditions for effective peer interaction, and intervene along the way when things are not working as well as they could.” 

Importantly, the leadership election process also recognises the value of those students who are not elected. Leadership is not confined to a badge or title. Many students demonstrate outstanding leadership every day through their kindness, service, academic effort, participation in school activities, and support of others. The willingness of students to nominate themselves, present their ideas, and contribute to the school community is a mark of courage and commitment. Schools thrive when all students embrace opportunities to lead through action and example, regardless of whether they hold a formal position.

Ultimately, elected Captains and Prefects strengthen the school community by promoting student voice, modelling positive citizenship, and fostering a culture where all students feel represented, supported, and inspired to contribute their best. Through their leadership, schools develop not only successful students but also capable, engaged, and community-minded future citizens.

In the end, that is why.

Wearable Recording Devices     

Recent media has highlighted the sale of a budget pair of glasses that are able to record images and sounds. Similar to the more expensive Ray Ban Meta glasses. St George’s would like to make it clear to all students and their families that devices, of this type, that have the capacity to capture images in real time are not permitted at school. Any student found to be wearing them will have them confiscated. The devices will only be returned to a parent or guardian. We have made this decision as part our safe guarding policy to avoid breeches of an individuals privacy.

School TV on ADHD 

This month's topic on St George’s SchoolTV site is ADHD. We encourage all parents and students to regularly look at our School TV  channel - it is a fantastic resource. and timely content.

Mr Ian Thompson

Dean of Students & Wellbeing