Student Leadership Council Shares Plans for 2025-26

Each academic year, a new Student Leadership Council steps forward to represent their peers, strengthen our school culture, and help shape meaningful initiatives across Somersfield. The 2025–26 council brings together a thoughtful, committed group of students who care deeply about service, collaboration, and creating a community where everyone feels included.

Our Executive Team

President – Dezirae Darrell

Dezirae grew up watching previous SLC leaders and felt inspired to step into the role herself. This year, she hopes to strengthen connections across the school and build an even stronger sense of pride and unity.

“I would like to implement greater opportunities for student artists and musicians to showcase their talent; peer tutoring programmes, school-lead charity drives and volunteer experiences, and also a student lead newspaper or podcast.”

Vice President – Naomi Crofton

Now in her third year on the council, Naomi emphasises honesty, responsibility, and taking initiative. She is focused on introducing new initiatives and increasing student engagement across a range of activities.

“I've joined SLC because I believe it's important that the students voices are heard. My learner profile involves curiosity. Being curious helps build understanding which allows us to be open to new ideas to facilitate change and challenge the status quo.”

Chair of Diversity – Yemaya Iris

Yemaya brings a thoughtful, reflective approach to leadership. She is eager to lead Jr. JEDI this year, creating safe spaces for dialogue and encouraging students to explore identity, stereotypes, and global issues with curiosity and respect.

“I'm most excited about leading Jr. JEDI to encourage tough conversations and bring awareness. I am also excited about implementing intercom announcements and leading special assemblies to promote diversity. I hope to also implement an SLC newsletter and feedback system.”

Student Life – Kate Allington

Kate aims to give back to the Somersfield community by planning activities that bring students together. She is motivated to create opportunities for connection, enthusiasm, and shared experiences.

“This year, I want to implement a podcast-type weekly announcement that covers what's going on at school and highlights students' and alumni achievements. I am also excited to support school dances and formals, which add to student life.”

Communications – April Cherry

April values clear, consistent communication and wants to ensure students know what is happening around them. She hopes to make it easier for the community to stay engaged and informed.

“This year I want to make it easier for us to have fun events for the student body. I enjoy taking pictures and to improve the SLC social media by posting more consistently and diversely.”

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Treasurer – Hayleigh Cherry

Hayleigh is enthusiastic about supporting fundraisers and school initiatives. She sees her role as essential in helping the SLC bring their ideas to life.

“I'm most excited about being able to supporting the fundraising for student leadership initiatives through events, plus helping to plan house competitions. I also want to inspire other students to make change through leadership.”

Secretary – Christina Lee

Christina is focused on organisation and detail. She aims to support the council by keeping meetings structured and ensuring ideas move smoothly from discussion to action.

“Though my role does not specifically entail peacebuilding, I, as a member of the council, will still identify problems within my school community and help to work towards a solution with my fellow members.”

House Leadership

Makos House Captain – Heidi Paulos

Heidi is eager to build a strong, inclusive house community and help create events that encourage participation.

“I am very excited to incorporate more house competitions throughout the year. I also want to have more student vs teacher sports events, which is something many students love to watch and participate in.

Makos Vice Captains – Paige Lindo

Paige aims to help keep Makos students engaged and connected, bringing steady support and a positive attitude to house activities.

“On the International Day of Peace, I vowed to commit to fostering peace by leading with kindness, practicing selflessness and approaching others with empathy and respect. I will maintain this mindset to ensure that I am a positive role model for studends and that all students feel like they belong at Somersfield.”

Makos Vice Captains – Maikel Dela Cruz

Maikel values teamwork and communication, and looks forward to encouraging strong participation across the Makos community.

“I want to inspire others to think independently, act responsibly, and care about the world around them.”

Tigers House Captain – Sydney Troake

Sydney has long been involved with student leadership at Somersfield. She believes in leading by example and encouraging others to step forward.

“I am most excited about working closer with our Primary and Children House community. Whether this be through volunteering with them, reading, or engaging with them. I am very excited to see how we can improve the relationship between our secondary and lower year levels.”

Tigers Vice Captains – Lola Reape

Lola brings enthusiasm and responsibility to her role, hoping to help Tigers students feel confident and involved.

“My main goals as part of SLC is to create fun, engaging, and inclusive house competitions. I also want to bring a lot of spirit to our Sports Day and make sure everyone has fun!”

Tigers Vice Captains – Jarred Jones

Jarred is eager to support Tigers initiatives and strengthen unity by keeping students informed and motivated.

“My main goals are to help create a more inclusive and connected environment. I want to be involved in several house competitions and help organise events, collaborate with others, and lead events that people look forward to every year.”

A Shared Vision for Somersfield

Across all roles, students described qualities they believe define strong leadership: respect, integrity, open-mindedness, communication, and the courage to speak up. They envision a school community that is inclusive, supportive, confident, and connected—one where students feel safe to express themselves and collaborate.

They also expressed a desire to contribute to Somersfield’s values in meaningful ways, whether through diversity initiatives, school spirit events, or projects that strengthen student voice and involvement.