‘Leading from the Heart’: Head Girl Leadership Training

Being at Woldingham School for Leadership Training was an incredible experience. As a Head Girl team, we discovered our individual strengths and weaknesses and learned how to apply these in our roles, as well as develop confidence, communication, and of course, teamwork skills. It also made us appreciate each other’s abilities and work together in a more thoughtful and compassionate way – which I believe has strengthened us as a team. I gained a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and confidence.

A key focus of the training was the Leading from the Heart skills toolbox, which emphasised qualities such as empathy, active listening, adaptability, and integrity. I learnt how to deal with difficult situations calmly, listen to others with full attention, and recognise different leadership styles like the 'doer', the 'visionary', and the 'authoritarian', helping me to reflect on when to adapt my approach depending on the situation. We were also taught how to run effective meetings, including the proper roles of a Chair and Secretary, and the importance of clear agendas, good etiquette, and allowing everyone a voice. I developed confidence in using strong body language and voice projection when speaking in assemblies or presenting to others.

I particularly enjoyed role-playing different leadership scenarios and acting out how I would respond – it was both fun and thought-provoking. We also had a meeting with Mrs Mason to plan how we will lead our committees in Year 13 and how we can engage more actively with the lower school, helping younger students feel involved and supported. I plan on implementing the communication skills we learned into my role in the future. I feel more prepared to use my initiative more often, especially in organising events and encouraging student voice, while also being a visible, positive presence around school who leads with kindness and courage. 

I loved connecting with other student leaders from Sacred Heart schools across the country, sharing ideas and making new friendships. I also liked doing the quiz with the other Head Girl teams as this gave us an opportunity to relax and bond (they were all lovely). What I found most profound was the connections we cultivated with the other Sacred Heart schools. Understanding how different – and equally similar – we are brought us all closer. We were able to build friendships and learn from each other’s successes, which I believe will allow us to bring new, innovative changes into our sixth form.

As well as having many opportunities to engage in prayer, such as our reflection at the vineyard, a true highlight was the commissioning service in the school chapel, where we were formally recognised in a special liturgy and received certificates to mark our new roles. Overall, it was an amazing experience that brought the Head Girl team together; I am incredibly grateful to have gone.”

Written by Jessica & Davida – Head Girl Team