Building Leadership Skills at Abbey College Cambridge
24th February 26
At Abbey College Cambridge, student leadership is more than a title – it’s a pathway to personal growth, confidence, and future success. Through a wide range of leadership opportunities, from serving on the Student Council to becoming a House Captain, students develop essential skills that prepare them for university and beyond. These roles encourage teamwork, responsibility, communication, and initiative, forming a vital part of our commitment to outstanding student development.
Why Leadership Matters
Universities and employers consistently look for young people who can collaborate, solve problems, and lead with integrity. By taking on leadership roles within the college, students learn to manage real responsibilities, support their peers, and contribute meaningfully to the school community. These experiences help them grow into confident, capable individuals ready to thrive in their next steps.
Student Leadership Team
The Student Leadership Team plays a central role in shaping the student experience. They:
- Oversee the work of the Student Council
- Plan college-wide events
- Strengthen and promote the College ethos
- Act as visible role models
- Serve as a communication bridge between students and senior leaders
- Meet regularly with the Senior Leadership Team to drive positive change
Student Council
Our Student Council members represent their Houses and ensure every student’s voice is heard. They:
- Act as positive role models
- Gather and share feedback from peers
- Help plan and support college events
Student Council member Amirhossein on what the role means to him:
“As a member of the Student Council at Abbey, I have developed my teamwork and communication skills by contributing to various activities and supporting the preparation of school events alongside the student leadership team.”
Prefects
Prefects take on responsibilities that help the school run smoothly each day. They:
- Mentor younger students
- Supervise breaktimes and end-of-day activities
- Support learning and enrichment sessions
- Encourage academic achievement
- Assist during open day events
Orientation Ambassadors
Orientation Ambassadors ensure new students feel welcomed and supported. They:
- Greet new students and families
- Provide essential information during registration
- Suggest improvements to the Orientation Programme
- Help quieter students feel included
Sustainability Leaders
Our Sustainability Leaders champion environmental responsibility across the college. They:
- Lead recycling and waste‑reduction initiatives
- Support the school’s waste management goals
- Run awareness campaigns and events
- Monitor and report on sustainability progress
We asked the Sustainability Leader Team to reflect on what their role means to them and our college community:
“The negligence to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it. Small acts, when multiplied by a million others, can transform the world. For us, this role means taking personal responsibility for protecting our planet and inspiring others to do the same through everyday actions.”
Well-being Leaders
Well-being Leaders promote positive mental health and emotional resilience. They:
- Advocate for self-care and peer support
- Provide feedback on wellbeing provision
- Lead assemblies and create wellbeing resources
- Support national awareness campaigns
- Promote physical activity initiatives like MiMove
Peer Mentors
Peer Mentors are selected for their academic and pastoral strengths. They:
- Support a mentee for six weeks
- Help improve academic progress and personal development
- Receive training in safeguarding, coaching, communication, and managing overwhelm
Peer Mentor Shawn tells us what the role means to him:
“As a peer mentor in Politics, I enjoy supporting others and helping them understand complex ideas. It’s a rewarding and fulfilling experience.”
House Captains
House Captains are at the heart of the House system. They:
- Serve as positive role models
- Motivate students to participate in House events
- Work with Housemasters and the Student Council
- Organise teams for competitions
- Keep their House informed and engaged
House Captain Julia reflects on what the role means to her:
“Being a House Captain is not just about greater responsibility or taking part in events, but more about listening to other students, supporting them through their challenges, and encouraging each other in both studies and house competitions.”
Year 13 A Level student Hannah shares what she has gained from being part of the Student Council:
Preparing for the Future
Whether students are leading a sustainability project, mentoring a peer, or representing their House, each leadership role at Abbey College Cambridge helps them build a strong foundation for university life and future careers. These experiences teach them how to collaborate, communicate, and take initiative – qualities that set them apart in an increasingly competitive world.
At Abbey College Cambridge, leadership isn’t just a position. It’s a journey of growth, responsibility, and self‑discovery.
