27 September 2024
Our Junior School Captains delivered a speech to the Year 5 cohort, sharing their experiences and the responsibilities involved in being a school captain. Their presentation aimed to inspire and encourage those considering nominating themselves for leadership roles next year.
Lachlan Bell – Junior School Vice-Captain
One key highlight for me has been the people I’ve met along the way. For example, you’ve definitely seen James and Ryan, the Senior School Captains, on stage alongside me and Beau. It’s been great talking to them about our weekends and the events we’ve attended. Additionally, we’ve made countless friends from different schools, with a special mention to the St Andrew’s and PAC Captains. At the Intercol lunches, I met the PAC Captain, and at the Walford Leadership Event, I met the St Andrew’s Captain. These people have made my life at Saints much more enjoyable.
However, being in a leadership position is about more than just fun events. It also means being responsible in everything you do. Whether it’s following instructions from teachers, being on time, or staying focused, people are always watching how you act. As a leader, you’re expected to set a good example for those around you. This can be challenging, but it’s also something I’ve come to get used to, and overall, it has really shaped my character for Senior School and life.
I’ve also learned the importance of treating everyone with respect, especially those in your year level whom you may not know well. It’s natural to be friendly and polite to your close friends, but as a leader, you have to extend that same respect to everyone. This has been an important part of my role as Vice Captain, and it’s helped me build relationships with a wider range of people.
Another big thing is public speaking. So far, I have spoken at the Poetry events, the Walford Leadership Event, and done the Acknowledgment of Country. The role is a great opportunity to practise public speaking and improve your skills. As you know, you might also be applying for a leadership responsibility. This is a prime example of public speaking. I’m here to explain why being a leader is a fantastic idea and experience. Think 10 years into the future, 20 years, 30 years. Think of the jobs you might have. Lawyer? Politician? Actor? Teacher? Many popular jobs require public speaking and leadership among your peers. Having a leadership role like mine is good practice for when you grow up.
Leadership isn’t just about standing in front of others and giving instructions. It’s also about listening, helping others when needed, and being part of a team. It’s a role that has helped me grow, not just as a leader, but as a person. And with that, I’d like to hand over to Beau, who will share his experiences and some of the challenges he’s faced as Captain.
Beau Leon – Junior School Captain
As Captain, I’ve had similar experiences, but I’d like to talk a bit more about some of the challenges that come with this role. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that, as a leader, you always have to stay above any trouble, or “above the fray”. There will always be people who cause issues or try to disrupt things, and sometimes they may even try to get you in trouble. I’ve had to deal with this myself, and it’s not always easy. But what’s important is how you respond, as letting their behaviour affect you can lead to problems.
When advising people when they’re doing the wrong thing, it can be tricky. You don’t want to come across as bossy or a “goody two-shoes,” but at the same time, it’s your responsibility to help others stay on the right track. I’ve learned that it’s best to be polite and respectful when giving advice, and to remember that how you present yourself matters just as much as what you say.
Another challenge is that people will look at you differently once you’re in a leadership position. Some will look up to you, but others might criticise you or judge your actions. This is part of being in any leadership role, like in politics, where not everyone agrees with you. I have learned that this is a regular problem, and something that needs to be overcome and dealt with, both now and later in life. It’s important to stay true to our school values and to keep yourself in check.
Of course, this isn’t the case for everyone. In our year, we had 30 candidates, and I was honoured to be selected as Captain of the Junior School. My partner Lachie and I were chosen for demonstrating the values of truth, respect, and service. We also made countless friendships and built trust with our fellow Year 6 students. This means that someone who might be popular but not responsible cannot get a leadership position, just as those who perfectly demonstrate the school’s values but alienate others won’t get votes. The lesson to learn here is how to be a leader by respecting both the rules and your peers. Being a leader, in three words, is inclusive, rewarding, and fun. I highly encourage all of you to apply for the Junior School Captain position, as well as any other co-curricular or lesson captain roles you’re interested in.
Being Captain has definitely had its challenges, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I’ve grown a lot in this role and learned how to handle difficult situations. I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead and for the trust that’s been placed in me.