Student Leadership
Take on meaningful leadership roles within the Sixth Form community, mentoring younger students, representing your peers, and shaping school life. Leadership flourishes at The Holy Cross Sixth Form, where students are encouraged to take an active role in school events, initiatives, and responsibilities, developing the confidence and skills needed for university, the workplace, and beyond.
Leadership Opportunities in Year 12
Leadership begins in the Autumn Term with foundation roles that allow students to build experience and confidence, including:
- Subject-specific responsibilities, such as Subject Prefect, supporting clubs or clinics (e.g., Science & Maths)
- Mentoring younger students
- Supporting House events
- Delivering assemblies
- Assisting parents at Open Evenings and Open Mornings
- Roles such as Social Justice Ambassador
In the Spring Term, students can apply for senior leadership positions, including:
- Head Girl and the Head Girl Team
- Head and Deputy Head of House
- Senior and General Prefects
- Diversity Ambassador
- Mental Health Ambassador
- Student Chaplain
- Head of School Music
- Sports Captain
- The House System
All students belong to one of five houses - Charity, Faith, Hope, Mercy, or Peace. This system fosters a sense of identity, healthy competition, and active participation in school-wide events such as sports competitions, Christmas initiatives, and debates.
The Sixth Form benefits from numerous leadership opportunities within the House system. Heads and Deputy Heads of House are senior positions, and all Sixth Formers are encouraged to support or lead events, giving them practical experience in team management, organisation, and community involvement.
Sixth Form students continue to take part in House Activities, competing in events and mentoring younger students. These opportunities foster leadership, collaboration, and school spirit, while allowing students to represent their Houses with pride.
Leadership Passport Programme
The Leadership Passport programme offers students diverse ways to lead across the school:
- Supporting or leading House events
- Academic responsibilities, e.g., Maths Prefect or clinic support
- Mentoring and paired reading with younger students
- Leading lunchtime or after-school clubs
- Working with parents and giving school tours
- Supporting the Catholic ethos through Aid to the Church in Need
- Volunteering and fundraising initiatives in the local community
- Inspiring peers by delivering assemblies
- Engaging with feeder schools through Taster Days and Induction events
With these foundation skills in place, students can apply for significant whole-school responsibilities such as Student Chaplain, Sports Captain, Diversity Ambassador, Social Justice Ambassador, Eco Rep, Mental Health Ambassador, or Head of House. Students are also encouraged to join the Student Council or apply for the Head Girl/Boy team.
Why Student Leadership Matters
Student leadership is central to life in the Sixth Form. By taking on responsibility, mentoring others, and leading initiatives, students:
- Build confidence, independence, and resilience
- Develop organisational and communication skills
- Make a tangible impact on school life
- Prepare for university and future careers
- Learn to lead and collaborate in a supportive environment
At The Holy Cross Sixth Form, leadership exists on many levels, and students are encouraged to challenge themselves while receiving guidance and support, ensuring every leadership experience is meaningful and rewarding.