Student Leadership

At KCC, leadership is not confined to a few titles or positions—it is a culture that shapes the daily life of our school. Every student is given the opportunity to step up, to take ownership, and to influence positive change. Leadership here means more than holding office; it means living our ethos values of Care, Community, Respect, Equality, and Excellence in Education.

Leadership in Action

• Student Council
  The democratically elected Student Council is the central structure for student voice and representation. Council members advocate for their peers, lead campaigns, host drop-in clinics, and act as Ethos Ambassadors—championing inclusion, respect, and kindness across the school.

• The Pantheon House System
  Students lead through competition, collaboration, and mentorship. House Captains and senior students organise events, motivate their teams, and support younger peers.

• GAA Future Leaders
  TY students develop teamwork, responsibility, and event management skills by coaching, refereeing, and running sports initiatives—leadership that extends far beyond the pitch.

• LIFT Ireland
  Weekly sessions allow students to explore values like empathy, accountability, and inclusion. By reflecting on their actions and choices, students develop the integrity and resilience of authentic leaders.

• Young Social Innovators (YSI)
  TY students address real-world issues by designing solutions and advocating for social change—cultivating courage, creativity, and civic responsibility.

• Student-Led Initiatives
  From Green Schools projects to wellbeing campaigns, students design and drive initiatives that impact school culture, sustainability, and inclusion.

The Lundy Model of Participation

Our approach is guided by the Laura Lundy Model, ensuring that every student experiences:

• Space to share their views in safe, inclusive settings.

• Voice to express opinions clearly, with scaffolds and supports where needed.

• Audience of adults who actively listen, respond, and respect student input.

• Influence in decisions on policies, curriculum, and school development.

Growing Tomorrow’s Leaders

Leadership at KCC is about capacity-building. Through practice, reflection, and responsibility, students gain the confidence to:

• Lead initiatives within the school and community

• Engage in democratic decision-making

• Represent peers locally, nationally, and internationally

• Carry forward the values of inclusion, kindness, and respect

As our Whole School Evaluation Report (2025) highlighted, “Members of the democratically-elected Student Council used their role to advocate for the general student body. The value attached to their voice was very clear…”

At Killorglin Community College, we don’t just create leaders—we nurture active citizens who are ready to inspire and shape the world around them.