LEADERSHIP opportunities come in many forms at Tea Gardens Public School, with several being filled as the academic year kicks into gear.
Whether House Captain, Student Parliament Minister, or Class Captain, kids are taking on roles that could be their first on the path to representative government.
The TGPS Student Parliament, now over 30 years in operation and a benchmark for many schools around the state, features parliamentary portfolios in Building and Health, Student Wellbeing, Education, Environment, Sport and Recreation, Transport, and Special Events.
“The portfolios… allow students to focus on areas they are passionate about and make meaningful contributions to school life,” teacher Matthew McInnes told News Of The Area.
There are also roles for parliamentary officials such as Speaker of the House, Deputy Speaker, Hansard reporters, Sergeant-at-Arms, and even Usher of the Black Rod.
“[These] roles… give our students a deep understanding of parliamentary processes and the importance of maintaining order and accurate records,” said Miss Elise Dunford, “Environment Senator”.
While the Parliament is tempered by the input of the Senate (teaching staff) and the Governor-General (principal), the layout and execution still gives juniors a visceral experience of how the mechanics of real-world government and leadership works.
Among the vital real-life skills is understanding process and procedure, and speaking publicly in front of their peers.
“Leadership roles at Tea Gardens Public School empower our students to become the best versions of themselves, by taking on responsibilities within our School Parliament they develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community,” Principal Mark Clemson told NOTA.
“We are excited to work closely with our dedicated student leaders… as each plays an important role in driving initiatives across key portfolios,” added Mrs Anya Ingram, Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction.
“Collaboration between Government ministers and the Opposition shadow ministry fosters critical thinking and accountability among our young leaders, preparing them for future civic engagement.”
The students are clear on the importance of their roles.
School Prime Minister, Rose, said, “I am so excited to hold this role. I am looking forward to making our school even better.”
Kaitlyn said, “I am looking forward to making fun and special events for people and I hope I can achieve the goal of making sure our school is a fun place for people to thrive and enjoy.”
Archie said, “As Minister for Building and Health, I am looking forward to speaking to my Senator and making positive changes around the school. Being in the Junior AECG, I am going to be a good role model and do stuff for Aboriginal people.”
Aria said, “I’m looking forward to speaking in parliament and hopefully reading without making mistakes.”
Tia said, “I’ll make sure no rubbish is on the ground and make sure the environment is taken care of.”
Tegan said, “I look forward to helping people be safe and I hope that I can achieve being in a Minister role next year.”
And from Tobias, “I’m looking forward to making sport more enjoyable.”
The 37th official opening of the School Parliament is on Friday, 12 June at 10am.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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