Year 6 Leadership in Action: Building Empathy at Jells Park
As part of their year-long inquiry into leadership, the Year 6 students have been exploring the values of Care, Empathy, Collaboration and Team Organisation through a series of excursions to Jells Park. Guided by leadership consultant Ben Righetti, he motivates the students through meaningful activities to facilitate their leadership journey. Applied Experiential Learning is key to the success of the program as the learning is personal, practical and memorable
Across the year, students reflect regularly on what they learn about leadership and themselves, capturing their insights in journals and applying their skills in daily school life. From mentoring their Year 2 buddies and helping at the ELC Mini Olympics to organising House Activities, hosting Junior School Assemblies and collaborating during Flexible Learning Time, their growth as leaders is evident.
Our most recent Jells Park excursion, held on 7 August, centred on the importance of Empathy within leadership. One standout challenge involved building a bridge from natural materials strong enough to support two people walking side by side.
This task required students to follow specific role descriptions and consider the unique needs of their teammates. Drawing on prior learnings of ‘Theory of Mind’ – the ability to see others’ perspectives, better appreciate other feelings, thoughts, and needs – we’re proud to say each group successfully met both collective and individual objectives.
Students reflected on the day with thoughtful insights:
Emily: “It’s important to be kind, gentle, considerate, patient and caring so people feel safe to share.“
Arnav: “There are times when you need to step back to better understand the situation and individual reactions, and then it’s important to retry and not give up.“
Isla: “Communication barriers make understanding people difficult, so you need to try to sit and listen to better understand their emotions and needs.“
Shevi: “You need to listen to understand and ask good questions to help meet their needs.”
In term 4, the program culminates with the Year 6 students imparting their insights, perspectives, and knowledge to Year 5 students, assisting with their induction. Facilitated by our leadership consultant, Ben Righetti, these two days requires every Year 6 student to plan, design and run an engaging activity aimed at encouraging Year 5 students to reflect on, and apply, specific values or traits important for effective leadership.
The Year 6 Leadership program is more than a leadership course, it’s a journey of self-awareness, resilience and connection. By learning to lead with empathy, our Year 6 students are building skills that will last far beyond their school years.
