Student Leadership

In Deyi, we believe that all students can lead. We have in place a rigorous Student Leadership Development Programme that seeks to inculcate in every Deyian the knowledge, skills, and values of a leader.

Deyi adopts the Servant Leadership model, where we believe that to lead is to serve, and that the primary motivation for leadership stems from the desire to serve and contribute to the community.

Our student leaders endeavour to be role models to their peers, uphold strong character, and are equipped with the skills to contribute to the betterment of their own lives and those around them.

Student Leadership Development Framework

At Deyi Secondary School, we believe that every student can lead. Leadership is not confined to positions of authority, but is reflected in one’s character, actions, and commitment to making a positive difference.

Our approach is grounded in the principles of Servant Leadership, where leadership begins with a genuine desire to serve others. We believe that to lead is to serve, and that meaningful leadership stems from placing the needs of others and the community before self. Through this, our students develop empathy, responsibility, and a strong sense of purpose.

The Deyi Student Leadership Development Framework aims to nurture every Deyian into a confident, values-driven leader who contributes actively to the community.

Our student leaders are guided to:

• Serve with humility and purpose

• Lead with integrity and responsibility

• Influence others positively

• Contribute meaningfully to both school and society

Our leadership development is anchored on two key pillars:

Together, these practices—anchored in Servant Leadership—shape our students into leaders of character and competence.

Through the framework, Deyi Student Leaders will be developed to:

• Be Role Models of Character
  Demonstrate integrity, resilience, and accountability

• Lead with Service
  Show care, empathy, and a commitment to serving others

• Collaborate Effectively
  Work well with diverse groups and build strong relationships

• Think Critically and Adaptively
  Make sound decisions and respond to challenges with confidence

• Contribute to Community
  Create meaningful impact within and beyond the school

Student Leadership Development Programme

The Student Leadership Development Programme is a four-year developmental journey designed to provide progressive and sustained learning experiences. It is designed to equip every Deyian with essential leadership knowledge, skills, and dispositions, while providing meaningful opportunities to apply these competencies in authentic contexts. 

Grounded in the principles of Servant Leadership, the programme seeks to nurture students who lead with purpose by serving others. It is aligned with the school’s core values of Integrity, Care, Determination, Diligence, Dedication, and Discipline, guiding students to develop both character and competence as leaders.

The programme comprises two key leadership development tracks:

Overseas Student Leadership Development Opportunity: Servant Leadership Trip (Vietnam)

Our signature Student Leadership Development Programme for our key student leaders is the Servant Leadership Trip to Vietnam. Selected student leaders from the Student Council, Peer Support Board, CCAs, and Gear-Up will embark on this meaningful service-learning journey, where they are immersed in authentic opportunities to serve, lead, and grow.

Through this overseas experience, students will:

• Engage in meaningful service-learning projects that address real community needs, such as supporting local schools, interacting with children, and contributing to community initiatives

• Develop cross-cultural awareness and global perspectives by interacting with local communities and gaining a deeper appreciation of diverse cultures and ways of life

• Practice servant leadership in action, learning to lead with empathy, humility, and a genuine desire to serve others

• Strengthen teamwork and collaboration, as they work closely with peers to plan and carry out service activities in unfamiliar environments

• Build resilience and adaptability, stepping out of their comfort zones and responding to real-world challenges

The trip is intentionally designed to move beyond transactional service towards transformational learning, where students reflect deeply on their experiences, values, and leadership purpose. Through guided reflections and discussions, they are encouraged to connect their learning to the principles of Servant Leadership and consider how they can continue to serve meaningfully within the school and wider community.

Ultimately, the Servant Leadership Trip seeks to develop globally aware, empathetic, and value-driven leaders who are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Leadership Opportunities and Platforms

Deyi Secondary School is committed to providing diverse and authentic opportunities for all Deyians to develop their leadership qualities and skills. Through a wide range of platforms, students are empowered to initiate, organise, and manage events and projects, allowing them to grow as leaders through meaningful experiences.

1. Student Council

The Student Council is the pinnacle student leadership body in Deyi Secondary School, playing a central role in shaping the student experience and strengthening the school community. As the voice of the student body, the Council serves as an important bridge between students and school management, providing a platform for students to contribute actively to school improvement and co-create meaningful initiatives. Student Councillors support the school in the planning and execution of major events and programmes, lead school-wide initiatives that promote the school’s values, and foster a strong sense of unity, pride, and belonging among their peers.

Student Councillors are selected through a rigorous and holistic process that considers their leadership potential, character, and commitment to service. The Student Council is led by the President, supported by the Vice-President and a team of departmental heads overseeing various functional areas. Together, they form the Student Council Executive Committee (EXCO), which provides strategic direction and oversees the implementation of initiatives. The President and Vice-President are elected through a democratic process complemented by interviews, ensuring that student leaders are both representative of their peers and capable of leading with integrity and competence.

Being a Student Councillor is a developmental journey that requires commitment, initiative, and a strong sense of responsibility. Councillors are provided with opportunities to develop key leadership competencies such as communication, teamwork, planning, and decision-making. Through their roles, they learn to engage effectively with peers and stakeholders, manage projects, and respond to challenges with confidence and adaptability. More importantly, they are guided to practise servant leadership in action, leading with empathy, humility, and a genuine desire to serve the school community.

Through their involvement, Student Councillors gain authentic leadership experiences that extend beyond routine responsibilities. They organise key school events, lead initiatives that enhance student well-being and school culture, collaborate with other student leadership groups, and represent the school at various platforms. These experiences enable them to develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose, while making meaningful contributions to the school community.

Anchored in the philosophy of Servant Leadership, Student Councillors are guided to lead not for recognition, but out of a genuine commitment to serve others. They are role models of integrity and character, leaders who listen and care, and individuals who inspire and uplift those around them. Through their journey in the Student Council, they grow into value-driven leaders who are equipped to lead with both heart and impact.

2. Peer Support Board (PSB)

The Peer Support Board is a student leadership body dedicated to fostering a caring and enabling school environment. Peer Support Leaders (PSLs) serve with empathy, integrity, and dedication, actively looking out for the well-being of their peers and building meaningful connections.

PSLs play a key role in:

• Promoting student well-being

• Role-modelling positive behaviours

• Cultivating an inclusive and supportive school culture

Leadership development within the PSB is progressive and tiered, providing students with opportunities to grow through increasing levels of responsibility. PSLs lead class-based bonding and wellness activities, organise school-wide programmes, and mentor their peers.

Through these experiences, PSLs embody the school’s vision of nurturing gracious citizens who contribute actively to a caring and supportive community.

3. CCA Leaders

CCA Leaders take on leadership roles within their respective Co-Curricular Activities, guiding their teams in programmes, competitions, and initiatives. These roles include Executive Committee members, officers, and sectional leaders.

They:

• Support teachers in the management and development of the CCA

• Lead and coordinate team activities

• Mentor and guide junior members

Through their leadership, CCA Leaders contribute to both the performance and culture of their respective groups.

4. Class Executive Committee (CEC) and Programme Ambassadors

The Class Executive Committee leads the class in all school programmes and initiatives, ensuring effective communication, coordination, and class cohesion.

These include:

• Chairperson

• Vice-Chairperson

• Secretary

Programme Ambassadors support and champion various school-wide initiatives, playing a vital role in promoting key areas of student development.

These include:

• National Education Ambassadors (NE)

• Values-in-Action Ambassadors (VIA)

• Green Ambassadors

• Health Ambassadors

• Safety Ambassadors

CEC members and Programme Ambassadors play an important role in fostering a positive and supportive class culture, contributing to both the academic and non-academic aspects of student life. They take the lead in advocating important causes, raising awareness on key issues, and engaging their peers in meaningful programmes and initiatives. Through their efforts, they help to cultivate a caring and inclusive environment, contributing to the holistic development of the school community.