Deputy Principal Mission and Pastoral Care

Leadership through service: forming the next generation of Dominican Leaders

Each year, the student leadership nomination and election process provides our College community with an opportunity to reflect on what leadership means at Santa Sabina. As a Dominican community, we understand leadership not as a position of status, but as a privileged opportunity to serve. Those who accept leadership roles commit themselves to living the mission and values of the College through both their words and actions. Leadership at Santa Sabina is grounded in the Dominican pillars of Prayer, Community, Study and Service and calls students to be authentic seekers of truth who inspire and enable others to flourish. 

The qualities we seek in our student leaders extend well beyond popularity, confidence or public speaking ability. Santa Sabina leaders are expected to exemplify Veritas, support the Dominican spirit, demonstrate initiative, show sound judgement, work collaboratively, serve generously and remain faithful to their responsibilities. They are called to be positive role models who balance leadership with their commitment to learning, while remaining approachable, compassionate and respectful members of the community. No easy feat for anyone, however, each year we have more students who can readily achieve these expectations than we have formal positions for them to fill.

In acknowledgement of the immense leadership potential of our student body, leadership at Santa Sabina is understood as a shared endeavour. While a small number of students hold formal positions, every member of the community is invited to exercise leadership through their daily actions. The leadership structure intentionally creates opportunities for students across Years 7 to 12 to contribute through Action Teams, House leadership and student initiatives, recognising that leadership is best expressed when many voices are heard and valued. 

Over recent weeks, our Year 11 students have engaged thoughtfully and enthusiastically in the 2026-2027 student leadership nomination process. Students submitted written applications, reflected on their leadership philosophy, articulated their understanding of the Dominican ethos and considered the legacy they hope to leave within the College community. Applicants were challenged to demonstrate not only leadership experience, but also character, service, integrity and a genuine commitment to others. Our new leadership team will be formally announced to the community next week during our Leadership Acknowledgement and Induction Assembly. We know that in the coming year leadership will not only be exemplified by these 20 students but by many other members of the Class of 2027. 

Mrs Melanie van der Meer
Deputy Principal Mission and Pastoral Care