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of student leadership
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
Jess 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 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.”
Jess Mosely, Year 12 student and Head Girl
Jemma Luelf Senior School Boarding Captain Year 12
Jemma Luelf didn’t always see herself as a leader but did believe she could provide support to other boarders and communicate boarding needs to staff.
“I tend to sit back and watch rather than stand in front of others. With this in mind, I believed I could be a leader in the school by standing beside others, not in front; by earning the respect of others, not forcing it,” said Jemma.
The Boarding Captain’s main responsibility is getting to know the younger students so they have someone to turn to in times of need. Jemma said the best thing about being the Boarding Captain is hearing other people’s stories.
“From the Junior School students, through to the staff and people in the wider KWS community, everyone has a story to tell. Long or short, I find it intriguing to understand individuals’ stories,” she said.
The Year 12 boarder has learnt to lead by example, getting involved in sport and activities; respectfully communicating to staff and other leaders at the School; meeting prospective staff and making feedback from boarders to staff constructive.
Jemma said being a female makes no difference when it comes to leadership at KWS.
“I think everyone at KWS is valued equally. Male or female, all are given opportunities to suit them and encouraged to give everything a go,” she said.
Jemma said anyone can be a leader and encouraged other students to put their hands up for leadership roles. “Whether you have a badge on your blazer or not, we all have a voice and have the chance to show the younger ones, looking up to us, how to act,” she said.
“KWS is very supportive and encouraging of everyone becoming a leader in some way or another. They understand that each student has their own strengths and weaknesses, and those can be displayed in different ways. By regularly educating us all on leadership throughout high school, means we are constantly building our skills to communicate, lead and act.”
Georgia Philippe, Year 6 student and Junior School Head Girl
Ella Andrews has always been a passionate advocate for social justice and becoming Deputy Head Girl gave her a platform to talk about the issues she cares about.
The Year 12 student’s focus has been on maintaining a positive culture at KWS based on equality.
“It’s funny, I never really understood the impact a student leader can have on a school, even though I had siblings and friends who were leaders at KWS before me,” said Ella.
“For one, KWS pushes us to speak up about issues and bring them to meetings, which is something I think young women really struggle with. Even though we know we have a voice, we often sit back and experience imposter syndrome.
As the Junior School Head Girl, Georgia Philippe gets to represent Kinross Wolaroi School at external events, including the Anzac Day service and delivering Easter gifts to local aged care residents; help run assemblies and speak at school events, such as the Performing Arts Concert. “It’s such a privilege to be Head Girl of the Junior School,” said Georgia. “Day-to-day, I just try to set a good example and support my fellow students the best I can.” Georgia said she always looked up to the Junior School leaders and was inspired to become a role model for the younger students when she reached Year 6. “KWS also really stresses the importance of confidence and knowing that we, as leaders, are here for a reason.”
Female leaders have notoriously had to work harder to be noticed, but Ella said this isn’t the case at KWS.
“I think it’s an issue universally acknowledged that women in leadership aren’t noticed as much as they should be. Thankfully, that hasn’t translated at KWS. I feel that the issues and thoughts raised by women at KWS are heard and valued,” said Ella.
Ella is proud to be a leader and to have the opportunity to advocate for causes she’s passionate about.
“I love the opportunities and experiences KWS has given me. I love the way the School pushed me out of my comfort zone and into these opportunities. It’s one thing to offer experiences to someone, but it’s another thing to urge them to take the unfamiliar road and pursue them,” she said.
Taking on the position has also been a chance to meet students across the Junior and Senior Schools.
“I loved getting to know everyone - students from Years 7-12 that I hadn’t met yet. Being a leader meant I could talk to these year groups and get their feedback on aspects of the School that perhaps needed to change,” said Ella. “I’ve really enjoyed that communication because I remember what it felt like to be a Junior School student and talk to a Senior School student. It’s an invaluable connection to have and it makes such a big difference.”
Georgia Philippe Junior School Head Girl Year 6
“Seeing the opportunities and responsibilities they undertook sparked my interest in a leadership role, and I am extremely grateful to be a part of this year’s leadership team in the Junior School,” she said. Georgia said she has been supported in the role through regular leadership meetings with teacher, Mrs Emma Charlton. She also hasn’t been alone, as all Year 6 students undertook leadership training as Peer Support Leaders this year. “This training and the opportunities and experience I have gained in my role have helped me to become a stronger leader,” said Georgia. It’s fair to say Georgia is wise beyond her years and not only does she recognise the importance of young people gaining leadership experience, but also the importance of student-led leadership. “I think it’s important for students to be supported by their peers and leadership roles help to achieve this. What I think is particularly fantastic about leadership at KWS, is that there are so many opportunities for students to take on a leadership role; whether it be as a Prefect, House Captain, Music Leader, Peer Support Leader or SRC representative. “In my experience, I have particularly enjoyed the opportunities, responsibilities and training that I have been offered. This has allowed me to develop my leadership skills.” •
