Student leadership structures at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer (OLM) aim to provide all students with the opportunity to undertake a leadership role. The college provides support structures to facilitate student leadership development at different stages including leadership training days. Student voice begins with homeroom class representatives who are selected to form the Student Representative Council and meet regularly to discuss student concerns and ideas.
Senior students are eligible for college leadership positions and peer mentoring roles in Year 11 which provide a specific structured leadership portfolio. This is a unique opportunity for students in a 7–11 environment to be offered leadership roles in Year 11. There are processes in place for students to nominate for these positions and promote themselves to the college community. Students are encouraged to exercise effective choice in the election of student leaders who will create a vibrant and inclusive community through active and effective leadership.
Student leadership at OLM is led by two college captains. They work closely with the college executive and are supported by four student leaders who have a specific portfolio. These portfolios cover areas such as Liturgy/Evangelisation, Mercy Action Group/Social Justice, CAPA/Debating and Environment/Stewardship and are assisted by a relevant staff member.
There are four house groups at the college. Each house has two captains who support the house coordinator and a sports captain who focuses on assisting with college sports events. As a team all student leaders meet regularly to organise and promote college events and activities.
As a college leader students are expected to be a good role model and encourage pride in the college and the Mercy charism. In performing their duties, it is expected that they will display initiative, model and encourage effective teamwork and enthusiastically motivate others to get involved. Our leaders will also have the opportunity to represent the college at community and Sydney Catholic Schools events.
