Leadership Academy

The Leadership Academy at Holy Cross Catholic High School has been inspiring and developing young leaders for the past two years, providing opportunities for pupils who are passionate about making a positive difference in their school and wider community.

With over 50 pupils involved each year, the Academy brings together students from different year groups who share a commitment to service, leadership and active citizenship. The programme provides a wide range of opportunities for pupils to develop their confidence, communication skills, teamwork and resilience whilst taking on meaningful leadership responsibilities.

At the heart of the Leadership Academy is the belief that leadership is about serving others. Pupils are encouraged to identify ways they can contribute to school life, support local communities and respond to the needs of others with compassion and empathy. Through volunteering, community outreach, democratic engagement and pupil-led initiatives, members gain valuable experiences that help them grow as responsible and confident young people.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.”

— 1 Peter 4:10

The Academy plays a key role in promoting pupil voice and civic engagement, giving students opportunities to shape their school community, represent the views of their peers and develop a greater understanding of how they can make a difference in society. Whether organising events, supporting local charities, visiting care homes, working with primary schools or engaging with democracy through Youth Parliament activities and visits to Westminster, pupils develop a strong sense of social responsibility and public service.

Rooted in the core principles of Love God, Work Hard, Be Kind, the Leadership Academy empowers pupils to become compassionate, faith-filled leaders who use their talents to serve others. Through their experiences, members develop the skills, values and confidence needed to make a positive impact both now and in the future.

Where can leadership take you?

The Leadership Academy is often the starting point for a wide range of leadership opportunities across school and beyond.

As pupils develop their confidence and experience, they may progress into a variety of leadership roles, including:

Student Prefect Team
Faith in Action and Chaplaincy Leadership
Peer Mentoring
Sports Leadership
Subject Ambassadors
Eco and Sustainability Leadership
School Council and Pupil Voice Initiatives
Community Volunteer Programmes

Leadership Academy members are also encouraged to engage with wider opportunities, including:

The SSAT Student Leadership Accreditation
The Scholars Programme
Public speaking and debating opportunities
Youth voice initiatives
Community action projects
Visits to Parliament and democratic institutions

Through these experiences, pupils gain the skills, confidence and qualifications that support future success in education, employment and active citizenship.

Civic Engagement

The Leadership Academy is founded on the belief that leadership is not about status or authority but about serving others and making a positive difference in the world around us. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus, pupils are encouraged to use their gifts and talents in service of others, putting their faith into action through compassion, generosity and community engagement. Our work is guided by the words of Christ: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Over the past two years, Leadership Academy pupils have been involved in a wide range of activities that have enriched both school and community life. Members have represented Holy Cross at an Inspire Leadership Event with Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP alongside pupils from local secondary schools, attended Mr Speaker’s Day at Westminster, and taken part in Learn with the Lords sessions to develop their understanding of democracy and public service. Pupils have also visited Duxbury Golf Course to learn about environmental stewardship and the partnership work undertaken by local schools to maintain and enhance the surrounding gardens and green spaces.

Service to the local community remains at the heart of the Academy. Pupils organise and host SVP Afternoon Teas, including Advent, Lenten and Spring events, welcoming members of our wider community and raising funds to support the vital work of the St Vincent de Paul Society. They have represented the school at local community galas, visited primary schools and care homes, and planned a variety of fundraising activities. Through the dedication of our pupils and the generosity of our community, the Leadership Academy has raised £935.32 for the SVP over the past two years. These experiences help pupils develop confidence, responsibility and leadership skills whilst learning that the most meaningful leadership is rooted in service to others.

How to apply

At Holy Cross Catholic High School, we are committed to helping every pupil develop their gifts and talents. The Leadership Academy provides opportunities for pupils to grow in confidence, develop leadership skills and make a positive difference through service to the school and wider community.

Following the success of the programme over the past two years, we are delighted to offer pupils the opportunity to apply for a place in the Leadership Academy for the next academic year. We are looking for enthusiastic, committed pupils who are willing to take on new challenges and contribute positively to school life.

To apply, please click the link below and complete the application form. Please note that you must use your Holy Cross school email address to access and submit the form. Applications can be submitted from Monday 7th September – Monday 14th September 2026.

Use this application to tell us about yourself, your interests and the qualities you would bring to the Leadership Academy.

Holy Cross Catholic High School Pupil Leadership Application 2026–2027 – complete the form