On Friday 15th August, during the Assumption Mass at St Brendan’s Church, our new Student Leaders for 2025/2026 were officially commissioned. This special occasion, held on the Holy Day of Obligation, was a meaningful moment for our College community. The Feast of the Assumption honours Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who was assumed body and soul into Heaven. In Catholic tradition, Mary is revered not only as the Mother of Jesus but also as the Mother of the Church.
At St Brigid’s, we look to Mary as a model of servant leadership her life marked by faith, humility, compassion, and selfless service. These qualities are central to the way we nurture leadership in our students. Mary’s example reminds us that true leadership is not about authority or recognition, but about serving others with love and purpose.
Our student leaders are called to embody the values we hold dear at the College:
- Compassion – Like Mary, our leaders strive to be kind, inclusive, and supportive, showing care for all members of our community.
- Wisdom – Inspired by Mary’s thoughtful discernment, our leaders aim to make wise choices and grow in understanding.
- Courage – Mary’s brave “yes” to God encourages our students to lead with integrity, even when faced with challenges.
- Stewardship – Following Mary’s nurturing spirit, our leaders take responsibility for their gifts, their environment, and their role in building a caring school culture.
As we celebrate the commissioning of our new leaders, we pray that Mary’s example continues to guide them and all of us toward leadership that is rooted in service, faith, and heart.
A special part of the ceremony was the blessing of the leadership badges by Fr. Baby, a deeply respected spiritual leader of both the College and Parish community. Each Senior Student Leader was called forward by name and title, accompanied by a parent or significant role model. In a symbolic gesture of partnership between the College and family, the badge was presented by Mr. Murdoch and pinned on the student’s shirt by their loved one. This moment of unity and shared commitment to leadership was deeply moving and a source of pride for the entire community.
College Captains for 2026, Hailey Debono and Zara Hepplewhite, delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude to their families, teachers, peers, and parish for their support. They shared their excitement about leading alongside a passionate leadership team, committed to servant leadership and fostering a culture of humility, compassion, and inclusion. They acknowledged the outgoing leaders for their inspiring legacy and outlined their vision for strengthening the College through its four key ministries: Community and Wellbeing, Evangelisation and Mission, Key Learning, and Student Achievement. Emphasising the importance of Parish connection and College spirit, Hailey and Zara pledged to lead with courage, wisdom, and purpose, encouraging all students to grow into leaders who make a positive impact on the world.
We also proudly welcomed the newly elected Student Representative Council (SRC) members for Years 7 to 10: Zali Mc, Hunter O, Chaise A, Emmanuelle D, Charlotte Mc, Anabella M, Tye G, Mackenzie W, Brando A, Sioeli F, Rose D, Mason E, Archie M, Phoebe E, Will M and Toby W.
Four representatives from each House were formally inducted, joining our Senior Student Leaders in a celebration of student voice and leadership. In a meaningful tradition, each Leader of Wellbeing had the honour of presenting leadership badges to the SRC members from their respective Houses. These Leaders of Wellbeing play a vital role in shaping the culture of their Houses serving as mentors and role models for emerging student leaders. Their involvement in the commissioning ceremony highlighted the strong connections and support that underpin our leadership program. We congratulate all our new SRC members and look forward to the positive impact they will make throughout the year.
On Wednesday 20th to Friday 22nd August our 16 Senior Student Leaders embarked on a transformative Student Leadership Retreat with Mr. Murdoch, Mr. Tomsett Sister Josie and Mrs. Tenev. This three-day journey was designed to ignite passion, purpose, and a deep sense of service in our emerging leaders.
Held in a reflective and supportive environment, the retreat focused on developing leadership grounded in faith, service, and community. Students explored a variety of leadership styles, with a special emphasis on Servant Leadership leading by example, with humility and a heart for others.
Highlights of the retreat included:
- Faith-Based Leadership: Students shared personal stories and reflected on how their faith shapes their leadership journey.
- Q&A with the 2025 College Captains: An inspiring session where current leaders offered wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice.
- Exploring Our College Values: Through the lens of St Brigid, students connected deeply with the values that underpin our school culture.
- Visioning and Goal Setting: Students imagined the future of leadership at St Brigid’s—what we do well, what we can improve, and how they can leave a lasting legacy.
- Balance and Wellbeing: A thoughtful session on maintaining balance between school, leadership, family, and personal time.
- Team Building and Ministry: Through collaborative activities and ministry planning, students learned the importance of working together and serving with purpose.
- Leadership Skills Workshops: From running effective meetings to managing projects, students gained practical tools to empower their teams.
The retreat concluded with a beautiful Mass which was a final reflection on the importance of leading with heart, faith, and integrity. We are incredibly proud of our student leaders and excited to see the positive impact they will have on our College community in the year ahead.
Mr Damien Tomsett
Assistant Principal, Evangelisation and Catechesis
