“The ones who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” Steve Jobs. At Glasshouse Christian College, we have a range of leadership opportunities and typically, for many who are in leadership, they are chosen because they have demonstrated that they are responsible, organised, passionate and reliable, such as sports captains etc. However, students also have the opportunity to nominate for badged positions to lead their section of the College in a variety of capacities. This form of leadership provides a platform for students to: 

• exercise their passion
• bring their views to this arena and have a voice
• deliver current/up-to-date contexts to the school setting
• ensure there are vital connections with other students in our school community
• develop a sense of ownership for all students in their school
• and by doing these things, create a wonderful community

The selection, development and guiding of students to lead well in the college is a great investment – as the outcomes for the students themselves but more importantly, for the whole College community are significant and rewarding.

For students, they have an opportunity to:

• take on responsibility and this in turn will assist them in other areas of their lives as they progress through school and into workplaces
• establish and practice/perfect their collaboration and teamwork skills
• develop empathy as they work with other students; and 
• grow in experience

Leadership in Middle School takes the form of two Middle School captains and then teams of leaders for House, Faith and Community, Arts and Academic leadership. 

I love watching these students own these roles, enjoy and make the most of their opportunities and the respect and gratitude they earn from their peers as they lead in these capacities. They are the ones who have learned the value in ‘not looking to their own interests but to the interests of others. Philippians 4: 2. It’s a privilege to work alongside them and I grow and learn from them as much as they develop and spread their wings. It can be nerve-wracking and exhilarating. It’s not always an easy gig.

This week, our Year 8s begin thinking about whether they would like to apply for a Middle School leadership role for 2023 and give back to the College community in this way. In Term 3, they will be interviewed and our prospective Middle School Captains will present speeches at an assembly. 

When a school has students leading well in various capacities, the school culture and atmosphere have a buzz. It becomes a friendly, vibrant, joyful place. A good school becomes great with effective student leaders. 

Jacqualina Vreeling, Head of Middle School