The Kimboltonian Quarterly Review has just been published and Toby, Aidan, Gughan from the 4th Form have interviewed Livy and Eliot – our new Head Girl and Head Boy about their first impressions – one term in.
Livy:
My first impressions of being Head Girl have been extremely positive. This role has given me a greater appreciation for the teamwork, organisation, and creativity that go into continually developing the school and maintaining such high standards. It is an incredible opportunity to work alongside staff and contribute to the direction of the school. I am thoroughly enjoying the role so far and look forward to the opportunities and experiences still to come.
Elliot:
My first impressions of getting told I was Head Boy was a very proud reaction and I was delighted to accept the position initially I wasn’t too sure what the role entailed apart from the famous speech at the end! However I was prepared to take on any challenge.
What is your favourite thing about bring head boy/girl?
Livy:
One of favourite things about being Head Girl is the connections you form with a variety of people across the school as well as supporting others in any way possible. It’s lovely to chair the friendly community of Kimbolton School and ensure inclusion for everybody.
Elliot:
One of my favourite things about being Head Boy is the role I plays in the school. I can listen to the student body and feed back to Senior Leadership Team.
What support do you have in the role?
Livy:
As Head Girl, I’m fortunate to receive support from many different areas of the school. The gown prefect team, especially Sophie and Tom, our deputies, and Elliot, my counterpart, are always there to help and work alongside me. I also receive great support from the Headmaster and Dr. Koch, with whom I have weekly meetings to discuss ideas and bring the student voice to life. Having such a supportive team around me makes the role both manageable and incredibly rewarding.
Elliot:
Support has been huge in the role of Head Boy, I have a great support team which has been implemented this year with the imposition of deputy heads to assist and help us we also have the gowns to support us not only the student body but Dr Koch and Mr Chuter always back us up and help us always being considerate of what work we have to do.
What are the pressures of the role?
Livy:
The main pressure associated with the role is managing the balance between my various commitments. Alongside maintaining my academic work and participating in extracurricular activities such as horse riding, hockey, and choir. I also dedicate time during lunches and breaks for meetings, as well as attending events including pupil forum discussions. Other pressures include public speaking and the responsibility of representing the student body, which require confidence and preparation. Perhaps the most visible pressure is delivering the end-of-year Speech Day address; although it is a pressurised situation, it is one that I am looking forward to.
Elliot:
There is a large amount of pressure to balance the student voice with the logistics of change with the teachers. It is also difficult to ensure all duties run smoothly as I am in charge of the gowns and therefore responsible for overseeing their activities. This role needs to be balanced with the struggle of A levels as well and is therefore relatively tricky to balance however it is a very rewarding role.
What would you say to those aspiring to be your role?
Livy:
To anyone aspiring to be Head Girl, I’d say believe in yourself and never be afraid of a challenge. Take every opportunity which comes your way and stay true to your values, be kind, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to lead, to listen within a team, and to learn from others. Work hard and remain humble.
Elliot:
Don’t do things for the role be yourself and try your hardest at everything you do and the role will pick you, you wont pick the role. It’s better to do two things amazingly than everything averagely. Just be yourself and try your hardest and the role will automatically come to you if you are a good person.
What skills have your learnt from being head boy and girl?
Livy:
In this role, leadership is the most essential skill, and I’ve strengthened mine by learning how to support others more effectively. I believe a good leader guides with motivation, kindness, and integrity, and that is the kind of leader I aspire to be. My communication skills have also grown through increased opportunities to speak with students, staff, and larger groups with confidence. I’ve refined my time-management abilities as well, as strong organisation is key to managing responsibilities effectively. Along with being a leader, it’s equally important to be a team player, someone who prioritises the needs of others, listens actively, and shows empathy in order to understand different perspectives.
Elliot:
I’ve learnt how to interact with different people like First Form and adults simultaneously. I have also learnt the true meaning of public speaking for example in assembly. I think the most important thing I have learnt is I don’t know everything and if someone knows more about a certain subject you need to be welcoming and use it as help not as a threat.
Anything else?
Livy:
Finally, I would like to sincerely thank Mr Chuter for this role. It has truly been a special experience, filled with opportunities that I will always remember. Finally, I would like to sincerely thank Mr Chuter for this role. It has truly been a special experience, filled with opportunities that I will always remember and cherish.
Elliot:
Head Boy is the best thing that has happened to me; it is recognition of hard work throughout your school career. I have loved every second of it so far and its such a privilege to know that your basic kindness is recognised in the school.
