Junior School Student Leadership Programme

At Dulwich College (Singapore), we believe that students are most motivated when they take the lead in their learning journey. Our Personalised Pathways approach empowers every child to discover their potential as a leader, whether through academic pursuits, creative endeavours, or collaborative projects. By following a path that reflects their unique choices, abilities, and personalities, students are encouraged to take ownership of their growth while developing the skills to inspire others. Through collaboration and communication, they gain the confidence to make a meaningful impact in their school community. This tailored approach connects year groups and schools, symbolising the passing of the torch and fostering enrichment opportunities both within and beyond traditional subjects.

Each leadership group is given a primary guiding statement focus to ensure balanced coverage across all areas, but it is important to recognise that many groups naturally align with multiple guiding statements. For example, while Sustainability Ambassadors focus on Environmental Sustainability, their work also contributes to Social Justice through advocacy efforts. This interconnected approach ensures that student leaders are not only developing specific skills within their roles but also contributing to a broader, more cohesive leadership culture that reflects the school’s core values. Head Students embody all guiding statements, representing the holistic vision of student leadership across the school.

We believe it to be important that our student leadership roles are linked to the school’s guiding statements as it aligns our efforts with the school’s core values and mission, providing students with a clear sense of purpose and direction. This connection fosters personal growth, ensuring students develop key leadership skills while actively contributing to school priorities such as wellbeing, diversity, and sustainability. It promotes a cohesive, consistent approach to leadership across the school, empowering students to be agents of meaningful change and helping them grow into responsible global citizens who understand the broader impact of their actions.

How do we mould future leaders?

The application process

Students can apply for leadership positions through MyDulwich, with the option to apply for up to three roles. Head Student applications are submitted before the summer break, and candidates deliver their two-minute speeches to the entire Junior School at the start of the new academic year. The Junior School then votes, with the top candidates selected for the role. Other leadership positions are decided by staff leads, ensuring a fair and thoughtful process. All leadership roles last for the full academic year, and every student who aspires to be a student leader is guaranteed at least one opportunity to hold a position during their time in the Junior School. This year, we received an impressive 984 applications from 646 students, meaning 73% of the student body wanted to become a student leader. 

 

Key Events

Student Leadership Conference
Held in Xi'an last year and Seoul this year, the EiM Student Leadership Conference allows students to collaborate on actionable plans to make a meaningful impact within their school community. Selected Student Leaders work alongside students from around the world to gain new leadership skills and learn what makes an effective leader.

Student Leadership Day
Through engaging assemblies and interactive workshops, the Student Leadership Day allows students to explore the value of leadership, teamwork, and communication, with the day culminating in an application process. 

Student Leadership Fair
The Student Leadership Fair is an end-of-year celebration that highlights the achievements of all leadership groups. This inspiring event showcases the impact of their work and encourages future leaders to step forward and apply for roles in the upcoming year.