A Reflection….Student Prefect Retreat 2023

On Friday 13th October the 2023/2024 Prefect Body embarked on a day of learning, development, and teamwork. As a group, we visited Yirranma Place in Darlinghurst, a community precinct for social purpose with a predominant focus on philanthropy. We were greeted by the lovely staff and had the lucky chance to meet some of the people working there, including Deirdre Mair. Deirdre is an associate working at For Purpose Investment Partners, a company focused on merging private sector capital and investment with social impact and change. For many, this was an inspiring experience, where girls, safe within the intimate space of our group, were able to ask questions over breakfast and gain insight into Deirdre’s experience with leadership and working as a team in the financial world. It was an excellent way to start the day, opening our eyes to some of the lessons she has learnt and experiences she has had.

The day followed with some teambuilding activities as well as a multitude of advice and learning from teachers and past leaders. One teaching which stood out to many of the Prefects was Mr Lee-Lindsay’s acronym, CHANGE. This represented the key qualities and aspects of a good leader. The acronym, standing for Character, Humility, Acknowledge, Noticing, Generosity and Everyone was particularly resonant with numerous girls, teaching us about the role and importance of leadership within our SCEGGS community. It was particularly helpful in establishing some of the goals of inclusion, commitment, and participation we would like to achieve as a Prefect Body over the coming year.

In addition to Mr Lee-Lindsay’s teachings, the Prefects were also addressed by Ms Allum where we were able to have an open conversation about the difficulties that come with leadership. Upon reflection, many girls took away the importance of maintaining balance between work and relaxation, where family and friends remain just as high a priority as school life and study. We also learned about how it is the leader’s role not to please everyone or choose the most popular option, but instead make the thoughtful and most appropriate decisions which will benefit the community. Most importantly, as a Prefect Body, we learned the importance of teamwork, playing to each other’s strengths, and ensuring that as a group we can work together to produce the most desirable outcomes for the journey of leadership we set to embark on over the coming year.

Towards the end of the day, the Prefects were lucky enough to read through the advice and learnings of past Prefect bodies. Not only did they help teach us many valuable lessons, but they reminded us of the legacy of SCEGGS Prefects and in turn, the importance of the role we must now play for the broader school community.

Overall, the Prefect Day was an incredible success, allowing us to learn about the fundamentals of leadership, but also integrate and build on our skills as a team. A huge thank you must be given to all the staff at Yirranma place as well as all the teachers who came and spoke to us. We are incredibly grateful for all your efforts and the advice you have generously passed on.

We are so excited for what’s to come and can’t wait to continue the SCEGGS tradition of strong, passionate student leaders!

Hannah Guest and Emily Gyton
Head Prefect and Deputy Head Prefect