The 2020 St Margaret’s School captains Alice O’Driscoll and Isobel Barry have had to reimagine their leadership strategies due to COVID-19. Both leaders believe their role is about building upon St Margaret’s already strong sense of community. “I want to ensure all girls, from our Pre-Prep students to the Year 12s, feel supported and encouraged,” Alice said.

Isobel said that by amplifying the community strength the school already possesses, “We can be a school that works beyond our campus. I want our students to feel empowered to be global changemakers and exemplify the St Margaret’s values in all they do,” Isobel said.

Alice and Isobel say connection and communication are key to their goals and have made the most out of the opportunities change can bring. “Our regular assembly addresses were pre-recorded, which meant we got to play around with video editing to make our speeches more entertaining,” Alice said.

Isobel said she had been inspired by the Prefects. “They are a group of extraordinary young women who continue to approach our fresh leadership journey eagerly and with passion. “Weekly online Prefect challenges were helping keep the student body connected and truly actioning the COVID-19 catch cry of ‘we’re all in this together’.

Isobel said perspective had been a powerful tool for keeping her spirits up. “COVID-19 has not stopped me from ‘attending’ school and I am safe and cared for, a luxury many people worldwide do not currently have. Perspective helps me to be grateful for what I do have, rather than what I do not.”

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