Leadership in the Primary Years: Growing Leaders with Purpose
At St Peters Springfield, we believe leadership is not something reserved for a select few—it is nurtured, developed and lived by every student. In the Primary Years, leadership is grounded in our commitment to student agency, the development of the whole child, and the values that underpin both our College and the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Every child is encouraged to see themselves as a leader: in their learning, in their relationships, and in the way they contribute to our community.
Our leadership journey is intentionally designed to grow over time, with key experiences that shape confidence, character and responsibility.
A Journey of Primary Years Leadership
The pathway of leaders of the Primary Years begins in Year 5 with the Kokoda Challenge, a powerful experience that builds resilience, teamwork and perseverance. Students are stretched beyond their comfort zones, learning that leadership is as much about supporting others as it is about personal strength.
As students move into Year 6, they step into their roles as the leaders of the Primary Years. This transition is marked by Spirit Day, where students celebrate their connection to the College, embrace their responsibility as role models, and begin to shape the culture of the school through their actions and attitudes.
Our Year 6 Leadership Dinner is a significant milestone, bringing together students, staff and families to acknowledge the importance of leadership. It is a moment of reflection and aspiration—where students are challenged to lead with integrity, humility and purpose.
The Canberra Tour provides a rich, real-world context for leadership and citizenship. As students explore Australia’s democratic institutions, they deepen their understanding of service, responsibility and the impact of leadership at a national level. It is a fitting culmination of their Primary Years journey, connecting their learning to the wider world.
Leadership in Action
While all students are leaders, our formal leadership roles provide additional opportunities to serve and influence:
- House Captains foster school spirit, encourage participation, and lead with enthusiasm at carnivals and community events.
- Arts Captains champion creativity, supporting performances and promoting the importance of the arts within our College culture.
- Cultural Captains lead by example by sharing their culture and being true global community.
These roles are not about status—they are about service. Our student leaders learn that true leadership is demonstrated through kindness, responsibility and a willingness to contribute to something greater than themselves.
Every Student, Every Day
At the heart of our approach is a simple but powerful belief: every student is a leader. Whether it is showing courage in learning, demonstrating care for others, or taking action within their community, leadership is lived out daily in our classrooms and playgrounds.
Through these experiences, our students leave the Primary Years not only prepared for the next stage of their education, but equipped with the confidence, character and compassion to lead in a changing world—always striving, in the spirit of Plus Ultra, ever higher.
Lia Sabri
Head of Primary Years








