While the century is still young, there is one certainty against a backdrop of uncertainty: the world is changing at an unprecedented rate. We now live in a global society characterised by complex challenges which can impact upon us at a local level.

An inevitable by-product of these changes is a degree of conflict and disorder. A necessary challenge for leaders today is how best to think and respond in a constructive and ethical way. There is little doubt that traditional notions and theories of leadership are becoming increasingly inadequate. Having a position or a title is no longer a precursor for effective leadership.

Leaders now need to empower rather than dictate, mentor rather than instruct, inspire rather than intimidate and create rather than replicate. Most importantly though leaders need to develop the capacity to reflect on how their values affect the way they lead. This requires them to truly know themselves and commit to a lifelong process of developing self awareness.

While knowledge and expertise continue to be important attributes for leaders, traditional notions of intelligence have also shifted. Emotional and social intelligences include a range of competencies which now are seen as integral to leadership effectiveness and sustaining interpersonal relationships.

At Melbourne Grammar we believe that all students have the capacity to be leaders. While some may not readily view themselves as leaders or actively seek leadership roles, this does not mean that opportunities for leadership development are any less important or relevant. As such, an emphasis is placed on preparing students for a dynamic life beyond school through the provision of a multi-dimensional programme which values, but goes beyond, academic learning.

Nathan Jessup, Director of Leadership