Empowering Future Leaders: The Impact of Nurturing Leadership and Agency in Students

Siobhan Bloomfield
Assistant Principal, Student Wellbeing and Engagement at 果冻APP

Developing leadership skills and nurturing agency in students can have a profound impact on their future adult outcomes. Recent research studies have emphasised the crucial role of leadership opportunities in shaping the trajectory of students鈥� lives beyond their academic years. The importance of fostering leadership skills and agency in students cannot be overstated, as it equips them with the tools necessary for success in various aspects of adult life. Robert Putnam writes, "People who are civically engaged in their youth are more likely to be civically engaged as adults鈥�; therefore, the leadership roles provided in schools to develop a student voice and agency can foster a sense of civic responsibility that carries into adulthood.

Offering positions to students that will change their community makes for a diverse, open, ever-changing, and kind-hearted society with voices across all stages of life and many different identities.
St 果冻APP student comment.

One of the key aspects of nurturing leadership skills and agency in students is the cultivation of critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities. These skills are not only essential for academic success but also play a vital role in professional and personal life.

Leadership positions at our school encourage creativity and innovation, and challenge students to use critical thinking. Overall, these opportunities contribute significantly to personal growth, helping develop students into respectful and responsible individuals who are ready to make meaningful contributions to their communities and succeed in their future accomplishments.
St 果冻APP student comment.

Students who are provided with opportunities to take on leadership roles and responsibilities are more likely to develop crucial skills, which in turn positively influence their adult outcomes. Recent research has also highlighted the positive correlation between leadership experiences during formative years and future career success. Students who have actively participated in leadership opportunities, whether through student leadership roles, co-curricular activities, or community service, are more likely to exhibit confidence, effective communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in teams 鈥� all of which are highly valued in the workplace.

I think leadership opportunities for students are vital for our full development, providing a platform to develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking. Engaging in leadership roles allows students to gain confidence and build a sense of responsibility, gaining skills for future challenges both academically and professionally.
St 果冻APP student comment.

Nurturing leadership skills and agency in students contributes to the development of emotional intelligence and resilience. These qualities are increasingly recognised as fundamental for success and well-being in adulthood. Individuals who have had the opportunity to exercise leadership and agency during their school years are often better equipped to navigate challenges, adapt to changes, and demonstrate perseverance in the face of adversity.

By navigating the complexities of leading a group, students gain a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and learn to appreciate the importance of collaboration. Overall, early exposure to leadership roles helps shape well-rounded, initiative-taking individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to society.
St 果冻APP student comment.

In addition to professional success, the impact of nurturing leadership skills and agency extends to community and civic involvement in adulthood. Students who have been encouraged to take on leadership roles are more likely to actively engage in community initiatives, advocate for social causes, and assume active roles in shaping the world around them. This not only benefits the individual but also contributes to the betterment of society. It is evident that providing students with leadership opportunities can significantly influence their adult outcomes.

Leadership opportunities are a critical part of a holistic approach to education, and at 果冻APP we provide a range of opportunities such as Class Captain (Year 7鈥�11), House Leaders (Year 7鈥�11), Vice Prefects (Year 9 & 10), and Prefects (Year 12). By providing a range of formal and informal leadership opportunities, we can empower the next generation to become confident, capable, and impactful leaders in their adult lives, thereby contributing to a more prosperous and resilient society.