THE C H R O NI CL E F E AT UR E S
STUDENT VOICE: A FEMALE VIEW OF STUDENT LEADERSHIP The theme of this edition of The Chronicle is ‘The Women’s Issue’ and what better way to celebrate than by speaking to our female student leaders. These impressive young women are proving you can lead at any age and that good leadership is all about respect, support and listening to one another.
Jess Mosely Senior School Head Girl Year 12
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ess Mosely considers a good role model to be a good leader. It’s what inspired her to take on more responsibility and how she measures her own success as Kinross Wolaroi School’s Head Girl. “I have always looked up to leaders who were role models for me at School. Even in Year 7, I remember thinking how cool it would be to have that opportunity one day,” said Jess. “Then the culture of respect that surrounds those who are strong and kind leaders in the School excited and inspired me to work to become something of that calibre.” Jess grew her confidence as a leader by taking part in KWS’ Cadet program and was encouraged to raise her hand for Head Girl in Year 12. One of her main responsibilities is meeting with the other Prefects each week to pass on feedback from students and decide which changes need to be made at the School.
“The Prefect team has the responsibility of acknowledging the wants and needs of those around them and serving them. That includes communicating any issues to the members of the School who can help us move forward and make changes,” said Jess. “The School places great trust in our ability.” Stepping into a leadership role at any age can be daunting and Jess isn’t afraid to admit that becoming Head Girl was a bit nerve-wracking, to begin with. What it taught Jess, was to lean on those around her and to know there is plenty of support available at KWS. “When I received the role, I wondered whether I was worthy. I questioned my ability to lead and the School’s choice to give me this responsibility. But the Principal, Dr Andrew Parry, and Chaplain, Reverend Dr Rosalie Clarke, would help calm my nerves before speaking at assemblies; Deputy Principal, Mr James Boyd, and Head
I have always looked up to leaders who were role models for me at School. Even in Year 7, I remember thinking how cool it would be to have that opportunity one day.” Jess Mosely, Year 12 student and Head Girl
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of Student Wellbeing, Mr Tom Riley, supported the Prefect’s ideas; and Year 12 Coordinator, Mrs Claudia McCalman, and Director of The Regional Engagement Enterprise, Mrs Sue-Ann Gavin, acted as mentors by providing reassurance and reading over my speeches. “The School has helped me overcome a type of self-doubt I thought would have a hold on me for a long time and build integrity in my actions to become a better leader.”
