Wellbeing

Student Leadership at St Patrick’s College

Student Leadership at St Patrick’s College plays an integral role in giving students the opportunity to use their voice and participate in important decision-making processes and advocate the needs of young people. It is valuable to offer our students leadership opportunities that result in badge, or no badge, during their schooling lives as it develops their team building skills, promotes a sense of empowerment, as well as foster effective communication and interpersonal skills. As many of the students know, leadership at St Patrick’s College is not only intended to influence and motivate people, rather it is about serving the community just as Jesus did.

As the Class of 2022 Student Leadership Team and Black Tie Leaders reach the end of their secondary schooling, we begin the Student Leadership Recommendation process for the Class of 2023. Last Monday, Year 11 participated in Leadership Day as a signal to begin their leadership journey at the College. The day included special guest speakers such as Ms Natalie Baini, Mr Paul Wright (College Captain 2004), Mr Byrne and SPC Student Leaders. Their presentations focused on ‘the good, the bad and the ugly’ aspects of leadership which were invaluable perspectives for our incoming Black Tie Leaders to hear about. The year group were also provided a sausage sizzle where we had Year 12 volunteers cook, serve, and clean up on their day-off post HSC Trials - this is what service leadership is all about! In the coming weeks, Year 11 will have the opportunity to engage in one of many senior student rites of passage where they will submit their recommendations of who they believe should formally serve the College community.

Similarly, students of Years 7 to 10 are currently in the process of recommending Year Ambassadors for Term 4, 2022 to Term 3, 2023. Like in previous years, the Years 7 to 10 Student Leadership Program is to promote meaningful and authentic student voice within the College. The Year Ambassador role is one of many leadership opportunities offered to four students in each year group. The role encourages students to focus on the needs of their cohort, working alongside their Year Coordinator.                   

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge all students who have stepped out of their comfort zone and have taken the courage to nominate themselves for a leadership opportunity.

Megan Santiago

Student Wellbeing Coordinator