“The last decade has seen a significant rethink on the concept of leadership. Authority-based, hierarchical leadership models are being replaced by a different notion altogether. Students who become active, independent learners, capable of critical and creative thinking will become tomorrow’s leaders and they will be global leaders not just Australian leaders. All of our students need leadership capabilities to succeed in a rapidly changing and complex world. The focus is on making each and every student a leader in their own lives, study and career.”
Paul Sheahan, Headmaster

“By being exposed to thinking about their learning, leadership theory and leadership experiences, students at Melbourne Grammar will be more flexible and adaptable, and they will become critical thinkers and problem solvers. They will be skilled communicators who can manage conflict appropriately and they will be more resilient, respectful of diversity and prepared to act on their values. Most importantly they will be life-long learners and community leaders.”
Polly Flanagan, Director of Leadership

Leadership in the Curriculum

Melbourne Grammar School is one of the first schools in Australia to teach leadership in a systematic way. Programs have been developed and delivered in the classroom and in a wider community context.

Leadership can be learnt when it is understood. In Year 5, students pinpoint issues of concern in the community and work together to provide a solution. Students are encouraged to discover the leader within by understanding that action results in change. In Years 6 to 8, the notion of leadership is introduced through a series of talks, discussion forums and special conferences held throughout the academic year. In Years 9 to 11, leadership becomes an integral part of the curriculum.

In Year 9, the emphasis is on the leadership of self. The following subjects are covered:

• leaders and leadership             
• thinking
• self-awareness and values       
• emotional intelligence – recognising emotions
• preferred behavioural style        
• emotional intelligence – managing emotions
• trust and integrity                   
• communication
• preferred learning style             

In Year 10, students look at leading with others, teamwork, problem solving and collaboration. Subjects covered include:

• conflict resolution                    
• current examples of leadership          
• thinking                               
• social awareness
• leading locally in a global world
• effective communication        
• the moral dimension of leadership
• co-operation, collaboration and team work

In Year 11 students will undertake a practical examination and application of leadership skills including a study of emotional intelligence and a consideration of how and why leaders such as Ernest Shackleton were successful. Subjects covered include:

• emotional intelligence        
• study skills/personal management
• case studies in leadership       
• young men’s health and welfare issues          
• career planning                     
• relaxation and stress management techniques