Leadership Tips from the Students of Bowdon Preparatory School
Fiona McGrath, Phase Leader for Year 5 and 6 at Bowdon Preparatory School, interviews Year 6 Students.
Leadership in primary school is crucial for fostering essential life skills in young people, helping children develop confidence, responsibility, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. By taking on leadership roles, our young people learn to communicate effectively, make decisions, and solve problems creatively. These experiences not only enhance their academic performance but also prepare them for future challenges.
At Bowdon Preparatory School, every Year 6 pupil becomes part of a leadership team, which encourages them to embody our school motto – to Believe in themselves and their abilities, Persevere through challenges, and Succeed in their endeavours.
Our leadership program is deeply rooted in our three values:
- Care – care for all
- Curriculum – commitment to excellence
- Community – working together
We asked three of our Year 6 Leaders to share their leadership tips, based on their experience at the school. Jessie represented the Friendship Captains (Care), Nikki spoke on behalf of the Art Captains (Curriculum), and Penelope sits on the School Council (Community).
Q. What do you think are the qualities of a good leader?
- Jessie: I think it’s about having good listening skills and patience but then knowing when to take the lead. A good leader looks to use everyone’s different strengths and encourages teamwork.
- Penelope: I agree about good listening skills; it’s showing kindness by demonstrating that everyone is heard and feels valued. I also think confidence and courage are important; people need to believe in you and you must stand up for what is right.
- Nikki: Good leaders are people who aren’t afraid to stand up for themselves or their peers; they have the ability to set clear goals and are effective in articulating ideas and inspiring others.
Q. What have you enjoyed about your leadership role this year?
- Penelope: Organising “Break the Rules Day” where we raised £1000 for our school.
- Nikki: I loved how one idea could grow into a big project that all of us Art Captains would work on together to help make a difference in our school.
- Jessie: Sharing ideas and working as a team to organise Friendship Day.
Q. Do you have any advice for next year’s leadership team?
- Nikki: Don’t hold back! Speak out when you have an idea as even the smallest ideas might turn into the next big project.
- Jessie: Listen to each other’s ideas; remember that everyone’s view is valid
- Penelope: Have fun! Leadership is an incredible opportunity to make a difference, support others and showcase your skills.
Jessie, Penelope and Nikki all agreed that the skills they have developed will be useful when they move to their secondary schools, especially communication, organisation and confidence.
We think that these tips demonstrate a strong foundation for their personal and professional growth. Their dedication and hard work have not only enriched their own experiences but have also positively impacted the entire school community. We are so proud of their achievements and confident that they will continue to thrive and inspire others in their future endeavours.
