Captains' Corner

On Monday 11 March, we had the opportunity to gather with the captains of Somerville House, Brisbane Boys' College and Sunshine Coast Grammar School for the PMSA Captains' Lunch. We started our day by meeting at the Rose Garden for group photos, and then ventured across the road to the Boarding House for a delicious three-course lunch. We had the privilege of meeting with Mr Shane Coppin, CEO of the PMSA and Ms Diane Bukowski, Deputy Chair of the PMSA, as well as the Principals and Heads of Secondary from each school. Networking and chatting with the captains across this lunch was instrumental in creating a strong sense of unity amongst us all and establishing connections beyond our immediate circles. This lunch gave us the opportunity to come together as a cohesive and supportive community. The three of us can proudly say we now have many new friends!

During the lunch, Mr Coppin posed two questions for us to answer in front of the group. The first question asked us to provide direct feedback to the PMSA, giving us an opportunity to reflect on what we would like to see changed or improved within our four schools, or the PMSA as a whole. There was a common theme of improving connections and camaraderie across the four schools, as well as extending our involvement together further than just combined musical items, ISCF and boarding socials we currently participate in. Hopefully we can implement some of these ideas into our schools soon. The second question encouraged us to consider what kind of leaders we are, asking us what we, as individuals, would not walk past or ignore. Responses ranged from untucked shirts, people struggling with mental health, having a chat with someone new, or simply smiling at someone as you cross paths. We were able to learn so much about the other leaders from their answers! 

Getting to know the other School Captains from their responses, but also throughout the rest of lunch, was definitely a highlight for us. It was really lovely to chat to a group of students who have very similar, yet different experiences to us. Our roles consist of many of the same duties, however there are also so many differences, and this led to a lot of discussion points. Learning from the other Captains, such as their methods and initiatives, was very insightful and definitely filled us with a lot of excitement for the rest of this year. It was inspiring to witness the passion and dedication that each individual brought to their role, and we found ourselves learning valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork throughout the lunch. 

By the end of the event, we had not only formed new friendships, but also established a network of support and collaboration. We look forward to meeting again with the PMSA School Captains sometime in the near future, to continue to cultivate the PMSA values of respect, integrity, care, collaboration and excellence.