How can we talk of a leadership role for young people in transforming schooling when we continue to use language that keeps them in subservient positions? What we are or more particularly, what our schools are, is so often defined by the language we use. This language defines our actions and, despite our intentions, we are patronizing at best and, at worst, totally condescending.

This relates largely to our attitude towards legitimate sharing of authority.
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Abstract
Using case study materials and student and teacher polling, the showcase will look at the power within student voice to make a difference in the schooling transformation process. The conversation will explore how adult anxieties can be confronted through non-hierarchical culture and structures and how younger and older members of the school community can work together to develop a school where change is part of the culture. The significant role of leadership and leadership modeling will be discussed and illustrated in the showcase. This will involve reviewing models of leadership and how leadership can be redesigned to develop student voice as a strategy for transformation. An illustration of young leaders from some twenty schools engaging the Vice Chairman of Australia’s National Curriculum Board in conversation about what young people see as relevant to a themselves in a National Curriculum will also be presented as part of the discussion on the power, authority and authenticity of student voice.
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We are very proud to launch ELTHAM’s new web site today. Choosing the right school for your son or daughter is an enormous undertaking and important family decision. We hope that many of the answers you are seeking about schooling can be found here. Please enjoy browsing for an insight into our unique learning environment and culture and to gain an understanding of our commitment to releasing your child’s talents.

Through this blog I look forward to reflecting and receiving your comment on aspects of education that are topical locally, nationwide and internationally. Please let me know if there are particular issues you would like me to discuss.

I’d like to start by posting an article I was invited to write for the coeducation feature of Melbourne’s The Age on April 28, 2008.

Best wishes

Dr David Warner
Principal/CEO
ELTHAM College of Education