Governor engages with Westminster’s Student Leaders

In Term 2, Westminster had the privilege of hosting Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia.

While past visits have often coincided with the opening of new buildings or facilities, this visit had a distinct and purposeful focus—to hear directly from young South Australians about their lives, challenges and ambitions.

As part of her School Visit Program, Her Excellency is visiting schools throughout South Australia to gain insight into the aspirations and perspectives of the next generation.

Westminster’s student leaders, both formal and informal, from across the Senior School shared time with the Governor discussing civics and citizenship, and the role we can all play in shaping our collective future.

Witnessing the emotional intelligence and engagement of our students, Westminster Principal Simon Shepherd said the visit was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact student and peer leadership has on shaping the culture of our School.

“Leadership at Westminster is grounded in integrity, service and a deep connection to community. From Preparatory through to Senior School, our student leaders are encouraged to live the School’s values and contribute in ways that genuinely shape and enrich School life,” Mr Shepherd said.

“Her Excellency was gracious in sharing her reflections on leadership and challenged our students to think deeply about how they lead and the values they choose to embody.”

Westminster School Captain Eliza Maloney described the conversation with Her Excellency as both encouraging and grounding.

“It was a privilege to speak so openly with Her Excellency about what leadership looks like in real terms,” Eliza said.

“She reaffirmed for us that leadership isn’t about being placed on a pedestal—there’s an informal side too. Ultimately, it’s about being purposeful and giving back to the School community. That’s where the real reward is.”

Westminster Year 12 House Captain Lucas Doe echoed that sentiment.

“Her Excellency encouraged us to lean into the uncomfortable side of leadership—navigating tough moments, having difficult conversations and sharing responsibility to help others grow alongside you. That’s the kind of leadership we aim to model at Westminster,” he said.

Westminster’s leaders encompass roles such as School Captains, House Captains and specialist positions across Wellbeing, Boarding, Indigenous Students, Music, Sport, Dance, Debating, Drama and a variety of student-led clubs.

Her Excellency praised the democratic structure of Westminster’s leadership appointment process, noting its depth and fairness—ensuring leadership is not simply a popularity contest, but a considered and purposeful responsibility undertaken by those prepared to serve and grow.

All leadership positions are filled through a four-step process—nomination, written application, voting and interview—ensuring students are chosen not only for their capability but for their readiness to lead with humility and purpose.

“Leadership is not about self, it is about selflessness, seeking to serve, humility and graciousness,” Principal Simon Shepherd said.

“It is about seeing what other people don’t, or choose not to, having the courage to act and a willingness to look for ways to be useful in every aspect of life. We strive to develop these traits in every Westminster student.”