At Williamstown Primary School, we believe in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow by empowering our students to take ownership of their learning and contribute positively to our school community. Our Student Leadership Program is designed to develop essential skills, values, and qualities that align with our core pillars: Respectful, Responsible, Resilient Learners.

Respectful Leaders

Our student leaders are role models who demonstrate respect in all aspects of their school life. They practice active listening, show kindness and empathy to others, and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. Through their leadership roles, they have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and promote a positive school culture that upholds the importance of mutual respect between students, teachers, and the wider community.

Responsible Leaders

At the heart of our Student Leadership Program is the idea of responsibility. We encourage our student leaders to take ownership of their actions, whether it’s through managing school events, supporting younger peers, or helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment. By giving students, the opportunity to make decisions, plan activities, and lead projects, we foster a strong sense of accountability and pride in their contributions to the school community.

Resilient Leaders

We understand that leadership requires perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges. Our student leadership program focuses on building resilience, encouraging students to bounce back from setbacks and to approach obstacles with a positive attitude. Whether they are organizing a fundraising event, solving a conflict, or leading a team, our students learn how to stay determined and adaptable in the face of adversity. Resilience is not just about overcoming difficulties, but about learning and growing through those experiences.

Learners at the Core of Leadership

At Williamstown Primary, we believe that true leadership is rooted in continuous learning. Our student leaders are encouraged to be lifelong learners, constantly reflecting on their actions, seeking feedback, and striving for personal and collective improvement. The skills and qualities developed through the Student Leadership Program align with our commitment to nurturing respectful, responsible, resilient learners who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society both now and in the future.

By connecting our leadership opportunities with our school pillars, we aim to provide a well-rounded experience that not only builds leadership skills but also helps our students grow into confident, thoughtful, and compassionate individuals. Through the Student Leadership Program, we are not just shaping future leaders; we are shaping responsible, resilient, and respectful citizens of the world.

Junior School Council (Prep-4)

Students in years Prep-4 have the opportunity to nominate to be their classes elected JSC representative, with grade ¾ classes elected a year 3 and year 4 student. In all a student representation of about 18 students make up the Junior JSC program. Core work that students are involved in is the raising of funds for local and state-wide charities. Charities the school has traditionally raised funds for through a variety of methods have been The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, West Welcome Wagon, Indigenous Literacy Foundation and the Salvation Army Wishing tree.

Senior JSC (Grade 5&6)

Our 12 Senior JSC lead our students through a broad range of opportunities. They are extremely visible, undertaking a broad range of activities that include but are not limited to Prep enrolment tours, Hobsons Bay Council Junior Council Program, running of key events such as ANZAC and Remembrance Day, presenting at the school’s School Council meetings, and presenting at assembly. 

The students meet fortnightly with the school’s principal team to discuss all things Willy Primary. In these meetings school facilities, learning programs and extracurricular activities are heavily discussed in a round table format

The aim of the senior JSC program is to provide visual leadership opportunities for students, while harnessing their voice to have an impact and/or make a change.

School Captains (Grade 6)

Each year two Grade 6 students are elected as school captains. These students meet regularly with the school’s leadership team to discuss school programs and facilities. They help lead the JSC in the range of events and initiatives listed above.

House Captains (Grade 6)

At Willy Primary all students are allocated into school houses. Each house, named after piers of Williamstown, provide students with a further sense of belonging. 

Throughout the year there are several house events providing opportunities for students to earn house points, while students have the opportunity to earn house points across the year through the demonstration of key elements of the Willy Kids are Friendly Kids program. 

The houses of Ferguson (Green), Reid (Yellow), Gem (Red) and Nelson (Blue) are all led by appointed house captains. These captains from year 6, who are elected by their peers, look to engage with all students to promote fun and student wellbeing.

At the end of each year the House Cup is awarded to the winning captains.

Other leadership opportunities:

• The Stand Up Project – All students
• GRIP Leadership Conference - Grade 5 & 6 Students
• Student Wellbeing Leaders - Grade 5 & 6 Students
• Pod Squad - Grade 4 Students
• Bike Monitors - Grade 3 & 4 Students
• Flag Monitors - Grade 5 & 6 students
• Buddies Program - Years Prep, 1, 2, 5 & 6