I am delighted to share with the community a poem I wrote for and read to the assembled Prep-6 students at Donnybrook and Kalkallo recently. The poem acknowledges the new student leaders who have clearly demonstrated their leadership potential in a short space of time. However, if also reflects my firm belief that a flourishing community is achieved when each of us steps into the leadership space.

I have been invited here to say
A few words about leadership at our assembly today
You might know that I’m a leader at our wonderful school
But my poem today shows you that you can be, too

You see, leaders can come in all shapes and sizes
They can be adults or children, or anything besides(es)
They can be tall or short, young or old, skinny or fat
They can wear pants or dresses, a patka or hat

Leadership is not about what’s on the outside
It’s all about how we can help others, like a guide
Sure, many superheroes are equipped with a cape
But for us leadership takes a slightly different shape

First and foremost, there’s empathy; that’s our ability to care
A good leader lets others know that they’re there
They’re helpful, and caring, considerate and kind
They go out of their way to ensure no-one’s left behind

Encouragement is something that good leaders do
To motivate others and develop their skills, too
By doing this, everyone can feel part of the team
And know that their gifts and talents are seen

Communication is also important to lead
After all, you need to get your message believed
Learning how to speak to others is a great skill
But listening can be equally as important as well

For what is a leader, who doesn’t care what others think
You might find that you have no followers, which would stink!
In order to change things for the better for all
Talk and listen to your peers – and they’ll follow your call

A leader is enthusiastic and passionate both
And sharing that with others ultimately leads to growth
Discover what interests you and follow your heart
When you think ‘Where can I lead?’ – well, that’s a good start

Loyalty and trust are two qualities you need
Because relationships are everything if you want to lead
Imagine that someone has been nasty to you
You’d be unlikely to follow if they then told you what to do

Which is why personal integrity is really quite key
That means doing what’s right, even if others don’t see
It’s about saying what you mean, and meaning what you say
But also contributing positively to the School every day

It can take courage to lead, that is quite true
Sometimes it’s risky to know what to do
But being brave is worth it, this much I know
Because good leaders work with others, so you’re never alone

Today some students will, with a badge, be endowed
To acknowledge their leadership skills, for which they should be proud
But all of us are leaders within our own right
All of us have the chance to let our colours shine bright

Next time you see someone who’s hurt, crying or upset
You can demonstrate friendship, which is part of the leadership set
Or if you see someone who’s doing something not good
Be an upstander and tell a teacher what you should

You might remember the School’s six values that we expect
Including Christian, excellence, resilience and respect
Integrity and safety make up the rest
These values you can use to take leadership steps

So, today we have learned that all of us have a chance
To step up, to lead, and to help others to dance
Leadership is made up of so many bits
Like a tree, with its trunk, branches, leaves and twigs

I look forward to seeing what each of you brings
To help everyone here to spread their wings
Remember, you’re never too little or small
To be a leader, because leadership is something for all.

Penelope Monger - Deputy Principal