Student Voice & Leadership

Reshape Our Future

Youth Forum

Twelve of our Year 9 students attended a Youth Forum in June and it was a great opportunity to gather with other like-minded students to discuss issues that matter to them. Two of our students penned their reflections of the day.

The Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YACV) held an online consultation event for student leaders all around Victoria to get together and discuss a range of topics, such as equality, the climate crisis, the political sphere, and how to be a better leader. 

The biggest thing I took from the conference was ways to be a better leader. During the conference, a panel of 5 leaders from the Victorian Student Representative Council gave valuable tips on what it means to be a leader and how to improve your leadership. We also learned about the inner workings of politics, the shady tactics politicians use to influence the majority, and the importance of young voters.

The abundance of speakers from various backgrounds made the day very lively. One notable speaker was a man who had recently moved from Iran. His discussion was based on the importance of determination and a good work ethic. This was thoroughly interesting as he used a variety of personal stories to convey his message.

As future leaders, our students applied to participate in the Alpine School, which is an opportunity to gain valuable resources to aid our future leadership skills, whether it be at school or in real life. We were here to understand different points of view and perspectives on how great leaders are formed and perform when looking after staff, states/countries, or students. 

Great leaders develop their teams and cultivate great relationships, rapport, and collaboration to help the group grow and thrive. The following points that we learned from the conference resonated with us.

1. Employing young people as leaders for their communities and society is critical.

2. Young people are pioneering social change, climate change, mental health, and many other issues. 

3. It's vital to consider the viewpoints of young people.

4. Being a real ally in the fight for change.

5. Getting rid of obstacles caused by race, culture, gender, sexuality, and other factors.

6. Politics is won by numbers, the votes and trust of the people.

We can apply these aspects to help future success by: 

- Communicating honestly and openly.

- Make contact with one another.

- Maintain an optimistic outlook.

- Make your voice heard.

- Defend your rights.

- Set clear objectives and 

- Encourage favourable feedback.

Reported by

Bailey R & Nikola P, Year 9

Thinking of joining the SRC?

Mid-year applications are now open for the School Representative Council. The SRC aims to make positive change in our school community in areas including: 

• School Pride 
• Learning Partnerships 
• Sustainability 
• Curriculum 

Click on the pdf and apply today!