Pupil Voice – Leadership
It goes without saying that if our society is in need of anything these days, it’s competent leaders. Leaders to stand up for our rights, to secure our future, leaders to make the world a better place. We are therefore so lucky in St. Ninian’s that we have so many opportunities to develop our leadership skills. From STEM Ambassadors to Sports Leaders, Classroom Helpers to Reading Champions, there is something for everyone to get involved in.
Throughout my time at St. Ninian’s I have had many chances to improve my leadership skills. I began as a coach at the St. Ninian’s Saturday and Holiday Sports Camps in first year, helping organise and run a whole range of different games and activities for primary aged children. This has been such an amazing experience which has helped me become more confident as an individual- I can honestly say I have learned as much from my time as a coach as I have taught the younger children. Since the beginning of fourth year I have also taken an active role in the running of the school’s Public Speaking and Debate Society. There I mentor younger students as they prepare for their debating competitions and help lead our weekly sessions. In 2017 I also began the Inter-Schools Debating Initiative which involved me visiting local primaries and giving them an introduction to debating. Developing leadership skills isn’t something that has to be boring; I thoroughly enjoy the Debate Club and look forward to coming up with new topics and challenges. Furthermore, I have been an assistant in our School Library for six years- a truly invaluable opportunity for people of all ages. In the library I can help younger pupils find the books they want as well as offer advice and answer questions. This has also involved helping out at author visits and book sales.
Calling yourself a leader sounds like some egotistical grasp at feeling superior, but in actuality it doesn’t need to be. Being a leader is not telling people what to do and is far more than being the biggest or strongest. It’s not about flamboyant claims or one grand gesture. A true leader is empathetic, able to understand and listen to other people, and most of all a leader is passionate about what they do. Everyone has the capacity to be a leader, and throughout the time you spend in St. Ninian’s there will be many chances for you to show initiative and improve your leadership skills.
Opportunities for leadership in St. Ninian’s have given me so many amazing experiences, enabling me to become more confident and proficient as a leader, as well as allowing me to meet so many new people. I know these events will stand me in good stead long after I leave, and I will be forever grateful for every opportunity I have had throughout my time here.
Holly Edgar 6a1
