I want to draw your attention to our student leaders.
We have many young people who are excellent role models in the College. I regularly witness the emerging leaders in our Junior School assemblies as the students introduce items, encourage award recipients and generally set a tone of excellence.
In the Senior School the Year 12 Captains and Prefects have welcomed visitors to the College, contributed to our Open Day and continued to present at whole College events. I receive multiple compliments and specific comments about the calibre of our leaders and the manner in which they conduct themselves. I am enormously proud of the students and want to share this with you all as you are raising remarkable young people.
This year, we have intentionally worked to shift our culture with the purpose of valuing student voice, and empowering our young leaders to make a difference. The College Captains and Vice-Captains have risen to this challenge with grace and determination. Each has spoken thoughtfully at Senior School assemblies, inspiring students from Years 7 through 12 to think deeply about perseverance, motivation, influence, and character. Their words have encouraged all of us to reflect on the choices before us and to consider how we "show up" each day matters.
What has been most inspiring, however, is the way these leaders have walked the talk. They have not shied away from opportunities to serve. Instead, they have modelled a genuine commitment to the College—seeking out ways to lift others up and create a sense of belonging for every student. They are leaving behind a significant legacy, one built on honesty, humility, and courage.
I also want to commend to you other student leaders. Those who lead sporting teams, represent in dance, debating, chapel, house events and in the classroom. We don’t need a title or a badge to be a true leader. Leadership is about upholding values and walking the talk with integrity. There are many capable students at Thomas Hassall.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."
Philippians 2:3