At the 2024/25 Prefects and Student Leaders Induction Service in October, we introduced a new tradition to honour the role our Year 12 students play as leaders of the entire school.

Years from now, when Maeve K (Kindergarten) looks back at her mementos from her sixth birthday, one will undoubtedly stand out. A simple handwritten card with the words “You made my day” on the front may seem unassuming at first glance but for Maeve, it will hold the key to a cherished memory.

On Friday 18 October 2024, our Kindergarten students joined us for the first time at the Prefects and Student Leaders Induction Service, a long-standing event in the St Catherine’s calendar. This annual service is a formal occasion that marks the beginning of our student leaders’ roles for the coming school year. From the ceremonial signing of the Prefects Book to the leadership pledge and the presentation of badges, the service has always been steeped in the rich traditions of our school.

This year, however, a beautiful new tradition was introduced to the event, symbolising the vital role our student leaders play as mentors and role models within the wider school community.

The small interactions we have with the Kindy students truly matter.

Abigail S (Year 11)

As each student leader stepped on stage to receive their badge, they were greeted by a Kindergarten student offering a yellow rose, a symbol of friendship and growth. In return, each student leader handed a handwritten card to their Kindergarten counterpart. This simple exchange represents a much deeper bond between our youngest and oldest students, as we strive to forge lifelong bonds between our girls that go far beyond age.

Although a few of our younger students were understandably nervous about appearing on stage before the entire senior school student body, they were excited to take part in such an important occasion. Meanwhile, for our student leaders, it was equally meaningful. As they prepare to enter into their final year of schooling with us, writing heartfelt messages to the Kindergarten students prompted them to reflect on their own early school days. On each card, they carefully chose words they wished they had received in Kindergarten, adding a deeply personal and special element to the ceremony.

For little Maeve, the experience was made even more
special as it coincided with her birthday. “It’s my favourite
day at school so far,” she said with a big smile. “It was
great to be able to give the bigger girls a flower and then
get a special card from them.” Her joy was echoed by
Prefect Abigail S, who reflected on the significance of
the moment.

“Having the Kindergarten girls there was
incredibly special as it allowed us to view our roles from a
new perspective. The small interactions we have with the
Kindy students truly matter. They look up to us, and we
have the opportunity to inspire them as they represent
the future of St Catherine’s community,” she added.