Hills College unveils 2019 College captains

College captains Chantelle Gray and Dakota Viliamu are among a rare breed of students who have been enrolled at Hills College for their entire school life from prep to year 12.

The duo have hit the ground running in the leadership roles, after hosting a number of school assemblies and even meeting Prime Minister Scott Morrison when he visited Emmaus College on February 1.

They have a reputation for working behind the scenes after school hours to support community initiatives involving the Parents and Friends Committee, Rotary Club and youth groups.

Mr Viliamu said he wanted to set a strong example for the entire school to follow.

“In this school we have a culture of working together,” he said.

“There is a strong bond between our whole school with year 12 students interacting with primary students.”

Ms Gray said she had been involved in the school dance club and sporting groups which allowed her to engage with the community outside school grounds.

Mr Viliamu intends to pursue a career in optometry or medical science while Ms Gray is aiming to study law after graduating.

The College captains were elected to their positions in a ballot involving students from years seven to 12 and teaching staff.

Hills College principal Kevin Lynch said students in leadership positions were better prepared for life outside school.

“Student leaders are prepared for the wider world by a series of specific workshops on public speaking, meeting protocols including the taking of minutes and leading a team,” he said.

“These are some of the things that students find daunting, but by providing training, and opportunities to undertake these responsibilities, the students gain an insight into leadership beyond the school grounds.”

Mr Lynch said the school community noticed Mr Viliamu and Ms Gray were selfless leaders who volunteered their time to help others.