Student Leadership
At St Columba’s College, we believe every student has the capacity to lead. Inspired by the values of Mary Aikenhead, our approach to leadership is grounded in service, responsibility, compassion and the courage to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Leadership at St Columba’s extends far beyond formal positions. Students are encouraged to develop their voice, exercise agency, contribute to decision-making and actively shape the life of the College community.
Our leadership framework is built around three key pillars:
• Advocacy – representing the student voice and contributing to College decision-making
• Service – supporting others through ministry, justice initiatives and community engagement
• Personal Development – building confidence, communication, collaboration and leadership skills
Student Leadership Opportunities
Students can participate in a wide range of leadership roles throughout their time at the College. Formal leadership opportunities include College Captains, House Captains, Specialist Captains, House Representatives and the Student Engagement Team (SET), which provides students with opportunities to contribute ideas, undertake consultation and help shape College initiatives. Students may also serve as Peer Support Leaders, College Ambassadors, Caritas Ambassadors, Dogs Connect Ambassadors and Fire Carriers. These roles provide meaningful opportunities to support younger students, promote wellbeing, advocate for social justice, strengthen reconciliation efforts and represent the College community. Leadership is also fostered through involvement in co-curricular groups, House activities, faith formation, sporting programs, environmental initiatives and everyday participation in College life.
Learning to Lead Program
Launched in 2026, the Learning to Lead Program at St Columba’s College is designed to nurture the leadership potential of students by helping them discover their strengths, develop confidence, and contribute meaningfully to the life of the College community. Grounded in the College’s mission and values, the program recognises that leadership is not simply about holding a position; it is about service, responsibility, collaboration, and the courage to act with integrity. Through a series of interactive workshops and practical experiences, students explore different leadership styles, strengthen their communication and teamwork skills, and learn how to make thoughtful, ethical decisions. Across the program, students engage in activities that build self-awareness, develop public speaking and problem-solving abilities, and encourage reflection on the values that shape effective leadership. A strong emphasis is placed on servant leadership, drawing inspiration from the College’s Catholic tradition and the example of Mary Aikenhead. Open to students in Years 9 and 10, the program runs over five sessions and provides participants with opportunities to learn from alumnae, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their personal leadership journey. Students who complete the program receive a certificate and recognition through the College’s Bronntanais’ o Dhia program, while also strengthening their readiness to take on leadership roles in the senior years. Through Learning to Lead, students are encouraged to grow not only as leaders within the College, but also as compassionate, thoughtful young people ready to make a positive contribution to the wider world.
To read more about our Student Leadership Opportunities, click here.