The importance of mentorship – from a student point of view

The Year 12 leadership group has been committed to fostering stronger connections between the sub-schools this semester, recognising the importance of mentorship in a student's journey.

The College's student leaders have worked closely with various teachers in the sub-schools and initiated several new programmes with the Junior and Middle Schools that have been met with great enthusiasm.

By encouraging these relationships from an early age, we hope to create an environment where younger boys feel comfortable seeking guidance from older students, building confidence and interpersonal skills and making their eventual transition to Senior School not only easier but also more enriching.

Current mentoring projects

Peer mentoring project

One of the new programmes is the Year 7/8 and Year 12 Peer Mentoring programme which has a greater focus on the transition to Senior School.

This is a period of rapid growth for these adolescent boys as they encounter new experiences, many of which the older students have likely already navigated, whether in academics, sport, or social life.

So, it's an opportunity to engage in conversations and share stories, whether good or bad, in an informal setting. It's also a great way for the Year 12 leaders to hear about what is happening in the Middle School.

This programme also has an emphasis on guiding the Middle School students on leadership skills, ensuring we set and maintain the high standards that make our school thrive.

In addition, we want to give the students an idea of what happens in the Senior School because time does fly, and before too long they will be moving across the road to begin their final years at the College.

Mateship Mondays

Another new initiative is the "Mateship Mondays" programme where Year 12 students, together with the Year 8 leaders, are assigned to various classes from pre-kindy to Year 5.

Before school, on Monday mornings, the students get together and participate in a range of activities such as reading, playing board games and outdoor sports.

Some of the Year 3 students have even gotten the better of the older boys in chess, which has not been well received!

Year 2 and 12

We are also continuing the Year 2 and 12 programme, where around sixty Year 12 boys meet with the Year 2s. In these sessions we get to know each other by enjoying activities, leisure time and breakfast together.

At our next session we will be making Spaghetti Towers in MacKellar Hall which should be a lot of fun!

So, why pair these two year groups together? Well, when the graduating Year 12s return for their 10 year reunion they are invited to watch their then-Year 2 buddies leading marching as they once did.

A rewarding experience

Mentoring the younger students has been one of the many rewarding aspects of being School Captain, providing an opportunity to lead in a more personal and meaningful way.

It's been a pleasure walking through the different sub-schools recognising so many familiar faces and having a chance to chat with boys I've met through the various programmes.

Guiding the younger boys as they navigate school life has not only helped them build confidence but has also strengthened the older boys' ability to lead with empathy and purpose. Watching them grow, ask questions, and develop a sense of belonging has highlighted just how meaningful these relationships are in shaping the culture of the school.

These programmes are entirely voluntary, not compulsory, yet the high level of participation has been truly encouraging. It's a testament to the spirit of the boys, with everyone, regardless of age, coming together to support one another and strengthen the sense of unity within the College.

Val Davies
Captain of School 2025