Student Leadership Positions

Today the first of a number of senior student leadership positions are to announced. We have been blown away by the number of children applying, by what we have seen over the last 6 weeks of observation and by the standard of their responses in interviews. For these positions we are often looking for specific skills and dispositions to fulfil the tasks they will undertake.

Today I talked at the senior assembly around the idea of leadership. For what it is worth I believe leaders are people who are able to influence and bring about a change. Some of the best leaders don't have titles but are still effective leaders in whatever is their sphere of influence whether it be at work, with friends or at home. My challenge to them was how would they react to the disappointment if they were not selected.

In my development as a leader, I know I have not always been successful in what I have wanted to achieve. The best times for my growth and development have been in times of challenge and what I have learnt from disappointments and mistakes. I explained to the children that what defines us and shapes our character is not what we achieve so much but how we deal with the challenges and disappointments that come our way as they inevitably will.  They have a choice about how they are going to react. Will they throw their toys out of the cot? Look to blame someone else? Sulk?  I hope not. Those reactions would just demonstrate they weren’t ready for that next step. No one wants leaders who will seek to influence people in those ways. There may be disappointment but I hope they will be able to celebrate with others and then reset their sights on new goals.

 There are many opportunities for children to enjoy at our school. Get out there and enjoy them, show leadership wherever you can because you never know what might be around the corner! See every thing that happens to you as an opportunity to grow!  Tu Tanagata  - Stand Tall.