Leadership 9

We’re considering Student Leadership and how that might be developed in our schools.

Biblical Christian worldview is much more than an intellectual philosophy.  We want to develop Biblically shaped thinking, understanding, formation, relating and engaging.

The culture of a school is very important in shaping this.

Culture is determined by faith; who we worship, what is important to us, what we care about, how we spend our time, what we celebrate, how we value people, how we serve one another and so on. Culture is an accumulation of so many of these things. It can be tangibly felt and be quickly recognised by visitors.

The culture of a community is strengthened when reinforced by all of its constituents. As our students grow and develop, they become more significant shapers and enhancers of our culture.

Given that we have said that one of the major aims of leadership is enabling, student leadership should support:

  • growth and change
  • development and improvement
  • gratitude and celebration
  • courage, discipline and correction
  • lament, compassion, justice and mercy.

All of these things will enhance the culture of the school community.

When we are developing student leadership, our key discussions will include helping them to understand the school culture, what they might expect from the community and what they can contribute to it.

Leadership is founded on faith and brings hope. I know of a school that has a concise statement that sums this up well: “Our student leadership will be founded on Christian faith, bring hope, speak in love and act with kindness and compassion.”

Another school has the simple motto ““Leading, Learning, Serving Jesus…”

It is really important that students see their crucial responsibility to enhance the school culture for all.

Blessings
Brian