Year 4 student takes over as Australian Christian College Southlands principal for the day

Nine-year-old Andre took the reins as principal for the day at Australian Christian College Southlands on November 11, welcoming students as they arrived on campus and emailing teachers.

The Principal for a Day Challenge has been offered to business and community leaders in the past to give insight into the challenges school leaders face, but this year it was offered to a student who demonstrated leadership qualities.

Andre, a Year 4 student, took the initiative to greet students as they arrived on the school bus, send encouraging emails to teachers, and provide suggestions to improve the school’s playground.

The nine-year-old also took the opportunity to meet with secondary students and encourage them to do well in their upcoming exams.

Andre treated staff to a free coffee and gave the students a generous recess extension.

ACC Southlands principal David Ramsay said it was “really great” to see Andre step up when the opportunity was provided, and to hear the ideas he had for the school.

“When Andre sent the encouraging email to staff, it was great encouragement for me to be intentional in encouraging people for the things I am appreciative of but sometimes don’t take the moment to mention,” Mr Ramsay said.

“A lot of students have asked me if they can be principal for the day tomorrow, next week, or next year.

“It’s a nice reminder that students do strive for more opportunities and that everyone likes an opportunity to be a leader.”

Mr Ramsay said watching Andre step into his shoes was a good opportunity to reflect on his own leadership style.

“Andre is definitely a people person,” he said.

“Although I love working with people, I often get caught in the day-to-day grind and so that reminder to get out amongst staff and students is helpful.

“The positive response to the day’s activities, especially Andre’s initiatives, highlighted the value of creating memorable and enjoyable experiences for students and staff alike.”