Leadership – Your Questions Answered
At De La Salle College, leadership isn’t just about titles – it’s about initiative, example and positive impact. From Year 7 onwards, students are encouraged to grow as leaders, whether through formal roles, peer mentorship, or everyday actions that strengthen our school community.
Peter Houlihan, Principal: “Leadership at De La Salle starts early. From Year 7, students can take on roles as class representatives, House Captains and activity leaders. As they progress, they can step into positions such as Prefects, Sports Captains, Music and Drama Leaders and ultimately, School C aptain. Our aim is to help each student grow in confidence and responsibility — whether or not they hold a formal title.”
Senior Student Leader: “I started as a Year 7 Class Representative, and that small role helped me find my voice. Now, as a senior leader, I mentor younger students and help organise school events. Leadership here is really about supporting others and being someone they can look up to.”
Susan Kiernan, Head of School (Middle Years): “Leadership is developed through experience. Our teachers guide students via workshops, peer mentoring, and real-world responsibilities that help them step up with confidence. We focus on essential qualities like teamwork, decision-making, and resilience, — skills they’llcarry with them long after graduation.”
Senior Student Leader: “I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about standing out — it’s about bringing people together. The support from my teachers has helped me grow, and I try to do the same for the younger students looking up to us.”
Peter Houlihan: “Leadership at De La Salle College is demonstrated when when students volunteer, take initiativeand support their peers. Many students step up in ways that aren’t always formally recognised —through community service, helping younger students, or contributing to extracurricular activities.”
[Insert Student Name]: “You don’t have to be a School Captain to be a leader. Organising events, helping at Mission Action Day, or even just checking in on your mates—these are all ways we lead. It’s about making a difference, and we all can.
