Our second group of Year 11 students are commencing their Touchstones Volunteer Placements, taking another important step in living out our College values through service to others.
Over the coming weeks, students will contribute their time, energy, and talents in a variety of meaningful placements across the local community. Some students are volunteering in community charities and opportunity shops, helping to support organisations that provide essential services and raise funds for those in need. Others are spending time in aged care facilities, building connections with older members of our community through conversation, companionship, and fun activities.
A number of students are also involved in projects within the College that will have a lasting impact on others. These initiatives are designed to support fellow students and the wider school community, demonstrating that acts of service can make a significant difference both within and beyond our College gates.
I wish these students luck and look forward to hearing about their experiences.
Last week marked the beginning of our 2026 Prefect Preparation Program, with an enthusiastic group of Year 11 students taking the first step in their leadership journey after nominating themselves to be considered for the College Prefect Team.
Over the six week program, students participate in a series of engaging after-school leadership workshops facilitated by different staff. Each session has been designed to develop their leadership and teamwork skills, challenge students and encourage them to reflect on the qualities of authentic servant leadership. Through practical activities, discussions and personal reflection, students will be encouraged to discover their own leadership strengths while learning how to inspire and support others.
I congratulate all students who have stepped forward and demonstrated the courage to nominate themselves for this opportunity. We all look forward to watching them grow in confidence, develop their leadership potential, and continue to make a positive contribution to our College community.
If you asked my Year 7 self if I would one day, be voluntarily sitting in leadership workshops after school, I would have laughed. Yet, walking into the Prefect Preparation Program this week was a full-circle moment. Parade College has not just been a school to me over the past five years - it has truly shaped who I am today, building my character, values, and confidence. Putting my hand up for student leadership comes down to one simple goal: I want to do the exact same for the school and the younger boys coming through. I want to be a servant leader who helps make Parade an even stronger, more supportive place for everyone to grow.
Our first session kicked off with a deep dive into leadership styles and group dynamics. We spent time dissecting the many personalities that make up a team - from the Initiator with endless big ideas to the Joker keeping things lively and even learning how to handle the occasional Aggressor or Silent Participant. Between analysing ineffective meeting clips and reflecting on inspiring leaders like Nelson Mandela, our very own teachers - the key takeaway was clear: leadership isn’t about power or having all the answers - it's about listening, empathy, and working together.
Putting my hand up for leadership is not about the badge; it is about the brotherhood. I am truly excited for the journey ahead in this program, and I look forward to working alongside my peers to ensure the 'Parade Spirit' continues to thrive.
Parade has given me so much, and I am genuinely excited to use this preparation program to prepare for serving the school that built me!
On Monday 20 July, I had the pleasure of attending the first session of the 2026 Prefect Preparation Program, situated in the Wright Room. This introductory session was run by both Ms Dourios and Mr Elmore, who went through one of the foundational elements of being a Prefect, teamwork. We learnt all about team dynamics, delegating roles, and what makes a good meeting. I joined the Prefect Preparation program so I could grow both my leadership and communication skills, but especially to give back to a school that has given so much to me over the years.
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