Ignite Programme: What makes a leader?

Ignite Programme: What makes a leader?

Year 5 Teacher Olivia Russo

This year we re-established our Junior School student leadership model to provide opportunities for all students in Year 5 to individually explore what it means to be a leader.

This redesigned programme has allowed students to develop their leadership skills through a variety of roles, ranging from hosting assemblies to engaging with younger peers as mentors.

Each student in Year 5 has the opportunity to complete their additional duties over a designated fortnight. The Year 5 leaders began the year by hosting assemblies, counting house points, rewarding positive student behaviour with the Junior School Odyssey, and engaging with younger students during their pastoral care time. This allowed them to engage in forums where younger students could raise concerns and older role models offered guidance. We observed the younger students develop a bond with their older role models and develop a beautiful friendliness in the playground.

Junior School teachers have been thoroughly impressed by the confidence and kindness that the Year 5 cohort has displayed through this process, showing true leadership qualities and communication skills.

To further support the development of leadership skills, the Year 5s have embarked on a new journey with Ignite Awards. The programme is a WA-based selfdevelopment programme for young people which focuses on four main pillars: connecting with the community through volunteering, improving wellbeing through physical activity, taking part in an adventure, and developing self-esteem through learning new skills and hobbies.

With the support of our parent community, so far the Year 5s have learnt how to develop SMART goals, they have discovered their inner strengths, and moved beyond their comfort zone, all whilst making a difference in their local community. We have engaged in team-building activities that foster leadership skills and focus on the importance of strong leaders being able to listen.

This has encouraged students to develop their inner voice and willingness to speak up for others.

The Year 5 cohort is currently looking forward to further progressing their journey through collaborations with other schools. They will have an opportunity to develop teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills through a range of team activities at an upcoming event. Students will work in small groups to successfully apply their leadership skills.

We look forward to supporting our young leaders transition to the Middle School where they will be able to engage in the next levels of the Ignite Awards. Many students have commented how the refreshed Junior School leadership model has inspired them to continue on their path as future leaders.