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- How Grimsdell Pupils Build Confidence Through Leadership
At Grimsdell Mill Hill Pre-Prep, leadership begins early. Even our youngest pupils are given the opportunity to grow into confident, responsible individuals through roles that promote independence, empathy and purpose. Leadership here doesn’t mean hierarchy – it means ownership, action and kindness.
Everyday Leadership for Every Child
From Reception to Year 2, children at Grimsdell learn that they can make a difference in their school community. Whether it’s helping a friend at playtime, contributing to School Council discussions or taking responsibility as a House Captain, every leadership moment builds confidence.
Our School Council includes elected representatives from each class who meet regularly to share ideas and bring pupil voices into decision-making. They learn how to listen, present their classmates' views and collaborate with staff on real school initiatives. In 2025, for example, the Council took full ownership of choosing new playground equipment – a lasting reminder of the impact pupil leadership can have.
The Eco Committee also gives pupils a platform to lead. Through projects like our energy-saving campaigns and Swap Shop initiative, children take ownership of sustainability and learn how to care for their environment – and each other.
Playground Buddies: Leading With Kindness
Playground Buddies are Year 2 pupils who volunteer to support others during break times. Identified by their special blue vests, these young leaders look out for anyone who needs a friend, encourage inclusive games and help children enjoy their playtime. They even meet with staff to discuss how to improve the playground experience for everyone.
"I look after children that need help playing. It means I am very busy at playtime which is fun." – Year 2 Playground Buddy
This role nurtures empathy, responsibility and confidence in public situations – all key ingredients for future leadership.
House Captains: Taking Pride in Our Community
Year 2 pupils can also be chosen as House Captains – a role they work towards throughout their time at Grimsdell. As House Captains, they help lead events, represent their peers and model positive behaviour in line with 'The Grimsdell Way.'
These roles help children understand commitment, encourage public speaking, and show them that leadership is about making a positive impact.
Junior Librarians and Communication Skills
Grimsdell Junior Librarians are passionate readers who support their peers in the library. They help others choose books, manage lending, and even contribute to choosing the Grimsdell Book of the Week through weekly duties.
"I like scanning and issuing books. I like children asking me for recommendations." – Taha, Year 2
Through this, pupils develop communication skills and feel a strong sense of trust and responsibility.
Building Confidence Through Giving
At Grimsdell, leadership also includes giving back. Pupils take part in charity pancake races, collect items for food banks, and perform for local elderly residents. These experiences show them the value of community and compassion, helping them understand their role as changemakers, however small.
Co-Curricular Involvement
Pupils at Grimsdell thrive in Music and the Performing Arts. Whether in the classroom or on stage repeated exposure to performance makes stepping out of your comfort zone less daunting. Over time, this confidence extends into everyday situations.
An initiative aimed to help children practise and learn a wide variety of life skills and soft skills, the Junior Duke award provides our pupils the opportunity to become more independent and confident in dealing with new situations for themself. With a range of challenges to be completed, both in school and at home, the initiative provides children with ownership over the challenges they choose.
A Foundation for Lifelong Leadership
By offering age-appropriate opportunities and empowering pupils to step forward, Grimsdell gives children the confidence to lead in their own way. Whether it’s helping a classmate, sharing ideas or taking on a role in a school production, every experience helps them build belief in themselves – and pride in their school community.
Grimsdell may be where their journey begins, but the lessons they learn here about confidence, kindness and responsibility will shape their path for years to come.
