Becoming a parent or carer is one of life’s greatest joys and, at times, one of its greatest challenges. For many in our community, this role extends through cultural and family networks; as aunties, uncles, foster carers or family friends and the rewards that come from these relationships with a child are immeasurable.

One of the most powerful things we can do as parents, carers, and educators is show up. Not just in the easy moments such as the school concerts, birthdays, and celebrations, but especially in the difficult ones. Showing up in those moments of hard conversations, disappointment, or uncertainty demonstrates what it means to lead with courage, empathy, and consistency.

Whether it’s reading with a young person or talking with them about their friendships, their learning, safety on the roads, or future career goals, these conversations are more than just guidance, they are moments of leadership development for our children. By turning up with empathy, by listening, and by navigating complex issues together, we model the core skills our children need to thrive as future leaders.

At Bishop Druitt College, we understand that leadership is not confined to a badge or title. It’s a daily practice. Each time a child is supported in making a difficult decision, each time they are heard, challenged, or celebrated, we are helping them build the essential skills of listening, integrity, communication, responsibility, and humility.

True leadership starts with personal growth. Our Anglican philosophy is founded in the belief that wellbeing, character development, and community connection are just as important as academic achievement. Through our pastoral care programs, rites of passage, and learning culture, students from Kindergarten to Year 12 experience and practise leadership in many forms.

Leadership can look like a Year 6 student supporting a new Kindergarten buddy, a student coaching a sports team, reading with younger peers, or welcoming visitors as an ambassador. It can also be leading a surf patrol, singing in a school band, captaining a chess or debating team, or being an MC at a school or community event. These moments are meaningful, and they matter.

We formally recognise leadership roles in Year 6 and in the senior years of Year 11 and 12, with roles such as House Captains and School Captains. Our student leaders are inducted through a service that honours both the symbolic and practical elements of leadership, including the lighting of candles, presentation of badges, the signing of a leadership ledger, and prayers from parents and staff. These moments connect our students to something greater than themselves, their legacy, their purpose, and their place within our college community.

Developing Future Leaders: The BDC Way

The leadership journey at Bishop Druitt College doesn’t begin or end with a title. It is intentionally nurtured. New senior leaders undertake a handover process with the outgoing School Executive, receive guidance from their Year Coordinators, and work with staff mentors to build their skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving and service.

We call this the BDC Advantage — the long-term investment in character and capacity. Our aim is to ensure that when students are called upon to lead, they do so with confidence, preparation, and care.

Leadership doesn’t always come easily. It requires commitment, resilience and courage — particularly in the hard moments. That’s why showing up matters so much. Whether we’re parents, carers, educators, or mentors, every time we show up, even when it’s hard, we make a lasting impact.

And who knows? That child we encourage today might one day become a School Captain, a project leader, a humanitarian organiser, a site manager, a mayor, or even a prime minister. But more importantly, we want them to become adults of good character, yes, people who show up for others and lead with heart through their everyday actions.

That’s leadership. That’s the BDC Way.

Simon Doyle
Principal